Learning as I go. Some good days, some hard.

It's Saturday morning and I woke up thanking God that I am feeling pretty well. I need to catch up on some work today. It's day 9 of my 14 day water fast. 

The night before last I had what I will call a flare up. The same old thing. Swelling that makes it hard to walk, bend my elbows, move my hands, and it all hurts - especially from the elbows down to my fingernails that feel like they are going to pop off. I felt like I had the full blown flu and the chills. I laid in bed, praying for sleep, and wondering what this could all mean for the near and distant future. I notice on my notes it's happened every third night the last few times. Again, I always blame it on food and on myself. I'm on my 9th day of water only so it's very confusing. I also have some new bumps/swelling on my tonsils; I'm grateful my voice has stayed normal, though. 

I just finished another book about Corrie Ten Boom called Life Lessons from the Hiding Place. Whenever I am feeling sorry for myself, I think of her in that concentration camp or after her stroke and so many others who don't have all the comforts I have and it helps pull me out of it. 

I believe we are in for some very tough times in the future. How can we not? Our country and world seems to be coming apart at the seems. People are polarizing and refusing to see each others' point of view. I even had someone I love tell me they were ready to fight for our country against "the other side." I guess that means he's ready to kill or be killed. Our country is so very in debt that we can't imagine coming out of it. When will that bill come due and what will be the consequences? We need to be ready and I want what Corrie had - she says to not be afraid. Just trust in the One True God and HE will get you through - not your faith or your beliefs or anything else. And I believe it. He will be there, holding my hand tight, as she says. 

I am also working through a podcast I think I've mentioned before called BEMA. I've thought the best part was meeting with my dear long-time small group via zoom every Friday night, which I love. But the study is also helping me, not only learn to think more "hebrew" as Jesus would have when he walked on the earth, but to keep my mind focused on how good his creation is (including you and me), how I can trust him, and the truths that renew my mind and assure me of his character. I'm reminded that joy comes from being grateful for the small blessings and "giving thanks in all circumstances." I can see where I go off target, tell him about it and that I am sorry, and ask him to help me overcome it. Oh ya, and the importance of patience without losing faith; he is at play but not in my time. 

One of the major themes of scripture is the need and actual commandment for us to REST. This has been interesting. All the way through Genesis and beyond, it is a theme. It is a way to show trust that he has it all in hand and that I am not God. I can do my best and then let him do the rest. 

Off to get my vitals taken and check in the with nurse and doctor. I've lost 14 lbs, by BP has gone down significantly, and everything else has looked good. Love to you!!!