Mike is having knee replacement Tuesday 11/7 at 11: 45 in Durham. Around 5 or 6 I will drive him home! Thank you so much for your prayers! I will update in the comments.
If I had to pick one word to describe what I believe God wants my ministry of spiritual encouragement to be I think it is surrender. The definition of surrender is to "cease resistance to an enemy or opponent and submit to their authority". This year has brought a lot of surrendering. One has been the building of our house - we have not even been able to get our lot. We were talking about how God didn't let someone buy a particular house and it hit me! God has not let us get our lot nor have we found a house we like. We surrendered and have peace that God will bring the right thing at the right time. Proverbs 3: 5-6, "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight."
The last two weeks have brought more surrendering. Mike was scheduled for his second knee replacement tomorrow. Last Monday he had a test that showed he had a 90% chance of blockages in his heart. Surrender. His doctor said he would have to have a nuclear stress test asap before he could have surgery. Surrender. Mike called from the appointment and said after they look at the pictures they would send him home or to the hospital. Surrender! He came home! The next day his doctor called and said there were no signs of blockages and he was perfectly normal for his age! We consider that a miracle! Thank You, Jesus!
So we are at Duke for his knee replacement! Surrender! I know God has this but I still have to keep surrendering! I keep trying to fix things! Wrestle, wrestle, surrender! Matthew 11: 28, "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest." I am ready to go to bed and get some rest - the kind I have when I know Jesus is up and in charge and doesn't need my help! Philippians 4: 7, "And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."