We never expect bad things to happen. Even though we know they do happen, we tend to think they won’t happen to us. For example, I didn’t expect my first pregnancy to end in a miscarriage. Nor did I expect my husband to have a near-fatal chainsaw accident or for me to fall down the stairs. Nor did I expect marital problems, or the financial difficulties that caused us to lose our first home. But they happened.
We rarely expect such adverse things to happen. Though we know they do happen every day. But to us? That seems impossible.
I’m having health problems again, this time with my pelvic floor. This is partly age-related, but it is also undoubtedly caused by the several pelvic surgeries I’ve had. This has led to numerous medical appointments and tests. The specialists I’ve seen want me to try rehabilitation/therapy before having to resort to surgery. I would appreciate your prayers because I would like to avoid another surgery.
Old Age “Fun”
Oh yes, Hubby and I are beginning to experience the ‘fun’ of old age! There are actually a lot of great things about getting older. In retirement, we’re freer to do what we want, when we want. Or course, we still have chores to do. But if we feel like having a “pajama day,” we can. We also have more time to spend with friends, pursue hobbies, try new things, or chase secret dreams.
Nevertheless, aging has its disadvantages. Things get harder to do. Hubby often comments on our walks around town that the hills are getting higher, and I readily agree. Of course, we both know that hills don’t actually grow. It’s just that we’re growing older.
When I look in the mirror, I wonder how that old woman got into my house. I’ve even noticed that my hearing isn’t as good as it used to be. I hope I won’t become one of those old women who goes around saying, “Eh, what’s that?” How terrible!
We’re approaching 70, and fortunately we’re still in pretty good health overall, if you don’t count my osteoporosis and high blood pressure. Not to mention my pelvic floor problems and the ‘fun’ of that.
My dad always used to say, “Old age isn’t for wimps.” I’m starting to understand what he meant.
Nevertheless, I find it helpful to remember that even bad things can work for the best. That’s not to say we should hope for trouble. It’s wiser to hope that everything will go well. However, recognizing that bad things can happen to us is, in its own way, a form of protection and preparation in its own right. This can help us to face them with a ready mindset and, to some extent, a prepared heart.
These new health issues have not made things easy. Even keeping up with everyday things has been difficult. But throughout this time, I have been thankful for God’s faithful promises. Isn’t it wonderful that we can hold on to them, no matter what comes our way?
God’s promises for life’s difficult situations:
- Difficulties and negative changes are inevitable, but God gives us peace.
“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” – John 16:33
- Worrying won’t stop bad things from happening, but God knows about them.
“Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.” – Matthew 6:34
- Even negative experiences can help us learn and grow.
“Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.” – James 1:2-4
- God gives us the courage to face troubles fearlessly.
“They will have no fear of bad news; their hearts are steadfast, trusting in the LORD.” – Psalm 112:7
- God is with us through all our troubles, and we should take comfort in that fact.
“The LORD himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.” – Deuteronomy 31:8
- God promises that trials won’t last forever.
“No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it.” – 1 Corinthians 10:13
So, when we are facing trials and troubles, we should always remember to entrust all our worries and cares to God, because He truly cares about us!
I was young and now I am old, yet I have never seen the righteous forsaken or their children begging bread.
Psalm 37:25
📷 Image credits: woman; street sign.
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