Doing OK

Hey all.

John is doing ok since chemo last Thursday. He is tired and has had some of those three nap days but yesterday I think he just took one. The physical therapist came to the house this morning to help him with his shoulder. This is the right shoulder and has been problematic since the surgery almost eight weeks ago. They really did rough him up during surgery. He found the experience encouraging and has exercises to do. The pt will come twice a week for a while.

We enjoyed a short visit with JR this weekend when he came home to vote. Also enjoyed visits from some other folks. We really appreciate the encouragement and prayers we receive from so many. John remains in good spirits but misses his work very much. Pam misses John.

Truthfully, it is strange when people tell us what a great example we are and how we have such a positive energy. What I really feel like is a soggy tissue, wet from tears and boohoo stuff. Still, even though we're having some tough times, and operating in a manner that is pretty off the mark for our family, we know we have so many blessings. Very kind people, some of whom we don't even know, have done some very nice things for us. We feel undeserving.

Prayer requests: That we would really feel God's presence and hear his voice. That John would handle the chemo and that it will stick - for good! That Audrey and JR will get their footing. And a BIG prayer request - that Pam would actually be able to keep her mouth shut and not ask her daughter what her school plans are. I'm pretty redonkulous (family joke) with crabbing about that.

And this very appropriate message came today from our favorite pastor: Bayless Conley.

1 Corinthians 10:13 says,

No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it.

The word temptation in this verse also means test or trial. With that in mind, here are a couple of thoughts to encourage you today.

1. Whatever test, trial, or temptation you are facing today, it is "common to man." That means that you are not the only one who has gone through whatever you are facing.

It is comforting to know that others have faced similar problems before us and made it through!

2. God makes a way of escape with the trial or temptation. That means you're not stuck! Before your difficulty ever arose, God designed a way of escape. And that means of escape comes with the problem.

So if you find yourself embroiled in trials, tests, or temptations today, start looking for God's way of escape--it exists. Trust Him to guide you safely through and out of your difficulties!

Aren't we blessed that the Lord Jesus dwells among us.

-Pam