Hummmm. . . .!

It is a glorious thing to know that your father God makes no mistakes in directing or permitting that which crosses the path of your life. It is the glory of God to conceal a matter. It is our glory to trust Him, no matter what. ~ Joni Eareckson Tada

I saw Joni at FBC in Jackson, MS in 1976. That evening, I listened to her testimony of how God turned an unexpected diving accident resulting in quadriplegia into a ministry for Him. While she spoke she held a Flair pen with her teeth and sketched. As a senior Physical Therapy student at the University of MS Medical School, my skills evaluated her abilities and her obvious paralysis. Her artistic talents exceeded my expectations. Certainly her testimony of accepting adversity and making positive strides challenged me as a therapist, her example was one of faith and courage.


In the fall of 2005, I read Joni's very personal story in her book, The God I Love. I found her honesty refreshing as she described the many years that she had hoped for a miracle yet grew  a ministry that touched thousands. And, again, a few days ago, I ran across her quote in my "stash" of other people's words. This time ~ summer 2011, I sit with her words and evaluate the meaning of this kind of faith and courage. Accepting God's directing or permitting . . . trust[ing] Him, no matter what is sometimes difficult. I do, however, believe His Purposes will never fail, and His Faithfulness will not end. Perhaps my trust in God can only be grounded in the very character of God. God's Promises are BEST! 


As for circumstances that I do not choose? I am reminded of Paul's words to the Corinthians:
In everything we do we try to show that we are true ministers of God. We patiently endure troubles and hardships and calamities of every kind. Romans 6:4 NLT
~ dho