“In Psalm 34, David reminds us that we should praise God through the good times and bad. Praise should fill our hearts every day, no matter our circumstances– especially when we are walking through seasons of great trials. 

In August 2019, I had to have a 5th laminectomy fusion on my spine due to a screw breaking off. I didn’t make it home until May of 2020. After months in the hospital, I remember waking up to find this horrible machine on me with lots of tubes. My husband Dave was right by my side, and the doctors were astounded, not knowing what to say. Dave and I just kept in prayer. During my stay at the wound clinic, surgery, in therapy, or just in my room, I had doctors and nurses praying over me and with me. God knew where he wanted me and equipped me with His people. I found many opportunities that I know the Lord put in my way to drop seeds and pray with others even on their last days. God gave me so many people to be with, talk with, sing with, and play music for. I forgot all about me and lived for Him. No matter how dark, He’s my light. God has His reasons why things happen the way they do, but I have learned He is always there and never leaves. He hears our prayer and soothes the soul. I love Him so. 

Psalm 16:7-8 (NIV)

‘I will praise the Lord, who counsels me;

even at night, my heart instructs me.

I keep my eyes always on the Lord. With him at my right hand, I will not be shaken.’

As my feet move forward for the day, I ask God to let my thoughts move heavenward. To fill me with enough energy to both walk and pray. To take in the beauty of creation, and the beauty of Christ. Father, please whisper a word of encouragement when I grow weary, and a well done, daughter, when I finish. Thanks for always walking with me, Jesus.”