Running a Marathon

It was never my intention to quit blogging on here for the past year. Honestly, my allergies got a lot worse for a time and we moved across the ocean to Scotland. Two huge things that rocked my world pretty hard, especially initially. I have been too weak in spirit many days to write about my allergies/health. My faith has been challenged more this past year, especially in regard to my allergies, than the previous 3 years in dealing with the life changes they brought. But despite all of this, God is GOOD! He has not left me and has continued to teach me in spite of my wavering faith that marathon-length illnesses can bring. It is my hope I can keep pressing on to the finish line--wherever that is, whenever it comes. It's also my hope that others with me might rejoice in the power and goodness of my God.

"Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trails, knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. And let endurance have its perfect result, so that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing." (James 1:2-4)

My faith has been tested. According to this verse that testing is developing endurance. I have to confess to you (as I just have to God) I have not been wanting to "let endurance have its perfect result, so that I may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing." I feel I have endured enough. I've run a long and good race (or so it feels) and I'm ready for it to be over. I am much more complete and perfect in spirit than I was when this began so that's good enough for me! But oh how different God's plans are at times! He does not yet consider me "lacking in nothing." I am not yet "perfect and complete" as much as HE would like. It is here where faith really begins--I must trust, accept and endure. I must BELIEVE the truths of God found here in James. It's easy to say I believe, but not have it penetrate my emotions, thoughts, and actions. Oh, God, that you would allow me to endure to the end! And when that end comes, that I may resemble and reflect your Son perfectly and completely!

If you'd like to think more on these things, I'd encourage you to read this:"Why God Doesn't Fully Explain Pain." by John Piper. A friend sent it to me and it is well worth the read.