Reading in (I Corinthians 1: 23-25, 27, HCSB) it said, “but we preach Christ crucified, a stumbling block to the Jews and foolishness to the Gentiles. Yet to those who are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ is God’s power and God’s wisdom, because God’s foolishness is wiser than human wisdom, and God’s weakness is stronger than human strength. Instead, God has chosen what is foolish in the world to shame the wise and God has chosen what is weak in the world to shame the strong.”
Watching a film entitled “The Untold Story of C.S. Lewis” tonight, it’s evident that God also woos the highly intelligent. I’ve found a need to cry out to God for wisdom, often over the years.
As I kept reading in 1 Corinthians, the verse telling us that followers of Jesus possess the mind of Christ gave me pause for thought. Sometimes, I’m not aware that I have the mind of Christ until I find myself in a situation. In November of 2022, I ended up in the hospital because of severe abdominal pain. They sent me to a larger hospital with a more advanced imaging machine called an MRI-CE. About five gastroenterologists came into the room. I could feel their fear. My surgeon later told me with the capability of better testing, it can become a two-edged sword. The GI doctors found a cyst near the gallbladder and bile ducts. If it became pre-cancerous, I would be in big trouble. I said, “If it turned into cancer, you mean?”
“Yes. That would be bad.”
They had a hard time telling me what they were concerned about. I felt their fear, but inside of me, I felt incredible peace.
The surgeon said it’s a terrible spot for cancer. It becomes aggressive and the person dies quickly. I prayed about it and sensed God’s “peace that passes all understanding,” two different times. So, I okayed the surgery. My husband made himself as available as possible for help at home.
Medical professionals, having seen the worst, were afraid. I experienced God’s assurance because He’s given me the mind of Christ. At times, I get it. The main thing I’m more aware of, the older I get, God is in control.
As I wondered if I even needed surgery, I experienced discomfort and some swelling in my upper abdomen. Then, I looked forward to the operation for anticipated relief.
Frankly, I didn’t want to be cut! I began to dread the operation. Yet, I also hoped I might be a witness for Jesus. That is not a desire of the flesh, but of the Spirit.
Also, I felt like I had a tiny idea of what Jesus felt before going to the cross. “Father, if possible, take this cup from Me. But, not My will, but Thy will be done.”
It turned out, my gallbladder had become inflamed. I don’t know when. So, she removed it, as she had forewarned me. Now, I am on the mend. The medical professionals are amazed at the progress, and I know it’s because of all the people praying for me. Thank God! On the other hand, the surgeon warned me I’ll have great days and suddenly not feel so well. Today is a day when I’m laying low.
So, if you happen to follow my blog and wondered why I haven’t written since November, now you know. Between pain and the holidays and restricted activities and more sleep than normal, the blog got neglected. I also feel as if I’m suffering from some spiritual warfare when it comes to my writing. That is not something new, but I am praying about it more. Greater is He that is in us than he that is in the world, is a reminder from 1 John 4:4 in the New Testament.
May God bless you and keep you in His powerful hands in these perilous times.
I did not realize you were ill. Praying for God’s healing touch of your body and your emotions as you suffer for Him and He teaches you great lessons to share with others. Be well, my friend, in Jesus’ Name. Miss you. Love you.
Thank you, Elaine. I appreciate your prayers and encouragement!
I didn’t mention that the Dr. said I could go back to all activities after a four week recovery. Such a relief. I miss you, too my friend.
Connie I’m so glad it wasn’t cancer. I got your card the day before you had your surgery. My friend Lisa picked up the mail that day so I asked her to pray too. And I’d have to believe that God used you as an example of what it means be a Christian, putting your trust in Him for the outcome. I’m not very good at commenting but I wanted you to know that I read your blog and have been praying for you. God bless you 😇🌷
Linda, thank you for stopping by and for caring. God bless you and those you care about.
I appreciate your comment and your prayers. I felt as though I could tell people were praying in an unexplainable way. 🙂 God bless you!