Patiently Waiting!

 Isaiah 40:29-31

He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak.Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary they will walk and not faint.

In November 2023 I had surgery for tendonitis. I was supposed to be out of work for only two weeks, unfortunately, two weeks became two months. At first , I was disappointed; but  I decided to take the time to clean the house for Christmas and decorate. “And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God.  

We like to make plans but God always has a better plan. I was waiting for my Registered Nurse License from New Jersey and didn't know that It was going to take so long. I was offered a position to start in the Emergency Department Residency December 5th. Sadly, I was put out of work on a leave of absence. My doctor sent me to start physical therapy; My New Jersey license was pending, while I was still on leave of absence . My New York license arrived but, in order for me to work; I needed a New Jersey license.  I had it all planned. The unexpected happened. I was taken another month out of work, two weeks became three months and still counting. 

“We can make plans, but the Lord determines our step. Pain can serve as a warning that something in the body is wrong. After a physical injury or surgery, however, discomfort is often part of the journey toward recovery. On December 5th my husband suffered a tragic accident. His lane was invaded by a distractor driver who was texting. His truck was totally lost and he was rushed to the Emergency Department by ambulance. He suffered a concussion, fracture, herniated disc and left wrist fracture. He is a true testimony, for the Glory of God. Lord preserve his life. We are both injured and out of work. In all this unexpected situation; Not even one time we complain, but many praise to God. We visit the doctor together, continue to pray and grow old together while we recover. Those who know me, know my good sense of humor. At times,  while my husband was in pain; I would tell him “You love me so much that you had to copycat with the same left wrist hand.” We were both struggling with our left hand. My husband had a brace and I had stitches and discomfort. We took January to fast 21 days, pray and wait, while God fights for us. Christmas was a challenge,  nothing of what we plan or imagine,  but God is our provider, our Jehovah Jireh. We had food in abundance and managed to still gather with family and friends for the Glory of God. 

We both learn that discomfort is often part of the journey toward recovery. At such times, many people might be tempted to let pain keep from working through the rehabilitation process to regain strength and mobility. 

My physical therapists constantly challenge me to push just past my comfort zone. They know that a good outcome depends on more than enduring pain once or twice and then quitting before recovery is complete. Successful rehab is dependent on the patient's hope for a better full recovery. In other words, I must look beyond my uncomfortable or painful present circumstances.  

Isaiah recognized that even strong young people have limitations. God understands that we don't like waiting. The Lord knows that waiting can be even more spiritually emotionally uncomfortable than trying to push through exhaustion in our own strength. “The end of something is better than its beginning. Patience is better than pride.”

Today, readers trust God with all your heart. God always has a plan. We have to trust and praise him while we wait for the victory to come. He knows that you are waiting and you are uncomfortable. Remember, Israel all they did was complain about everything and became spiritual blind. Not even once they thank the Lord. “The Lord became very angry, and this made Moses very upset.” Stay focused, praise him while you wait. Be thankful in every circumstance, because victory belongs to the Lord.  

Lets pray,

Father, I am sorry that I complained. I am sorry If I doubt your plan. Sorry for my selfishness. Today, I come to you to praise you and thank you. Help my faith and please help me to gain patience. Jesus you are my anchor. I will trust you and I will wait on you. Jesus, I know your plans are always better. Thank you for all you have done. Thank you for the healing. Jesus, I love you and I will forever praise you in the storm. In the name of Jesus, Amen.