The emotions surfacing in last night’s dream were loss, anger, distress and powerlessness. Once again, I woke up shouting, then began to pray.
It’s very rare for me to pray for myself, but facing the Breast Clinic tomorrow with a lump on my sternum, this is how I prayed today, writing it down immediately afterwards:
Lord, whatever this lump turns out to be, please help me through the whole experience.
Please help everyone who is suffering in any way to go through whatever they must face.
Even while I’m saying this, Lord, I know you’re always with every one of us, sharing our suffering, and longing to help us through it. Yet even you, our Creator, have to wait until we turn to you and ask.
Please help everyone who is suffering to come to you, so you can show us your love and compassion, while you help us to go through whatever we must experience.
I ask this in your dear Son’s name. Amen.
Even when I walk through the darkest valley, I will not be afraid, for you are close beside me. Your rod and your staff protect and comfort me (Psalm 23:4, NLT).
References
Jesus told him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me” (John 14:6; NLT).
You can enter God’s Kingdom only through the narrow gate (Matthew 7:13; NLT).
He became anguished and distressed (Matthew 26:37; NLT).
He prayed that, if it were possible, the awful hour awaiting him might pass him by. “Abba, Father,” he cried out, “everything is possible for you. Please take this cup of suffering away from me. Yet I want your will to be done, not mine” (Mark 14: 35-6; NLT).
My Father! If this cup cannot be taken away unless I drink it, your will be done (Matthew 26:42; NLT, my emphasis).
In all their suffering he also suffered, and he personally rescued them. In his love and mercy he redeemed them. He lifted them up and carried them through all the years (Isaiah 63:9; NLT).
The LORD must wait for you to come to him so he can show you his love and compassion (Isaiah 30:18; NLT).
Your words have touched so many and in such a positive way. We are all praying for you at this tough time. Please know that we all care for you so very much.
Oh, what amazing words, Joan. Thank you so very much. I still miss you XXXXXXXXX