The Presence: 21 Day Devotional: Day 13

Praise the Lord, my soul, and forget not all his benefits-who forgives all your sins and heals all your diseases, who redeems your life from the pit and crowns you with love and compassion.
Psalm 103:2-4  NIV

Psalm 103:1-12

Surgery, open heart, risk, possible death...Upon hearing these words, my mind quickly became crowded with fear, confusion, and a sense of regret for the time wasted. How could a routine checkup turn into the scariest moment my family faced? I looked at my dad and I could see those same fears and uncertainty staring back at us. Trusting God, the six-hour surgery went ahead as planned. Every minute that passed, prayer increased our faith. Every hour that passed, my lungs gasped for air as my soul regained hope. Suddenly, my pastor gathered us all in the hospital lobby and prayed. Mid-prayer, we received the phone call that his heart successfully restarted and the doctors would now conclude the surgery. The nurse ended the call by saying, “Your dad is going to be okay.” In that moment, relief and gratitude filled our hearts.

God made it clear to us that His goodness and faithfulness doesn’t stop because the circumstances around us seem dark and hopeless. As you are reading this, do not allow a moment of uncertainty to cloud your memory of everything God has done for you. Know that God sees your struggles, He hears your cries, and He knows the burdens you carry.

Remember to praise Him and trust that His love, goodness, and faithfulness crown you – even when everything else points otherwise!