God's Perfect Peace

Scripture:
"Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid." (John 14:27)

Wow, now that the surgery is over and Jackie is at home and itching to get out of bed and do things, We sense God's peace over us as we look back on this experience. Granted, the experience is not really over yet because Jackie still was taking some pain medication and the stitches are still there, but the majority of the experience is behind us. At the same time, the experience is still fresh in our minds so we can learn from this in a deeper way.

First of all, before, during and after this experience we sensed a lot of love from family and friends. Many called and expressed their concern and wanted to know how Jackie is doing. This kind of love comes to us and gives us peace because the love of God is manifested through the love from our family and friends.

Secondly, even though this surgery is quite common and relatively "easy" today, with only the need to cut four little holes in the abdomen to do the surgery, it was quite trying during the three days in the hospital when for two of those days Jackie was having a negative reaction to the original pain medication. After they changed it she literally was on her feet in only a couple of hours. During the first two days I felt a peace from God because I knew we were in a good hospital and we would soon be through this. On the last day when they changed the medicine and I noticed how quickly Jackie responded, I felt God's peace along with our joy.

Thirdly, as we look at how God has cared for us by having good insurance coverage here a Avery, we have God's peace because we are both thankful that this little trial, has not damaged us in any lasting physical, emotional or spiritual way.

Just like Psalm 121:7-8 says, "The Lord will keep you from all harm. He will watch over your life. the Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore."

Prayer Request:
That we would continue to share God's love and support others when they need it during a trying experience.

Prayer:
Dear Lord, thank you so much that you are caring for our needs and watching over us so that no harm comes upon us. And thank you Lord for our brothers and sisters in Christ who you use to share your love to us in the body of Christ. Amen.