“When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; And through the rivers, they will not overflow you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be scorched, nor will the flame burn you.” Isaiah 43:2
Storms are not anything new for me to journal about. (Please click on this link to be encourage more: https://soakinguptheson.com/new/?s=Storms) While on a recent fishing trip offshore, we went through a slight bout of treacherous weather.
The weather report wasn’t calling for any rain that morning, although the sky told another story on our way out. Behind us, the sun was rising and God was showing off His artistry. Looking ahead to the west, the cumulus clouds were dark and rising. Rain began to slowly trickle before the sky opened up with heavier drops of moisture. We braced and protected ourselves as the waves began to pound against the boat and soak us even more than were already were. The storm didn’t last long. Once we were through it, a rainbow appeared. I’d look behind at the dark sky with the sunrise beside it, and looked ahead at the promise of God’s glorious day. When I saw this scene I couldn’t help but think about the storm of another kind that our family was experiencing.
See the rainbow! God’s promise!
We ended up having a successful day on the water!
During the last week in June, we received a phone call from my mom informing the families that Carol (my step-dad) had had two massive silent heart attacks and has to be flown to Tampa for surgery.
Over the past two weeks, our rather large family has been a great support system for my mom, Carol, and each other. Siblings have flown in from Washington state, driven down from Georgia, and commuted from all parts of Florida. Family members haven’t been the only one doing so, numerous friends have been champions through this temporary storm.
The triple-bypass went well. After a few days, Carol was able to be transported to a regular room. That stay didn’t last long. He ended up coding, while my mom and step-brother were in the room, then he coded again once he returned to CCU. Another procedure was done to help the “dead heart” (as one doctor put it) heal. Carol had much fluid in his lungs and other complications. We honestly prepared for the worst, but hoped for the best.
Prayer warriors from around the world were intervening on the family’s behalf.
God isn’t finished with Carol yet. His vitals continued to improve slowly, and he is soon being moved to a rehab facility. Praise the Lord!
Our family was holding on to God through this storm, and we do see glory in the end.
It is my prayer that others have seen God’s hand in and around this situation, and maybe be encouraged by the faith that has been and will continue to be displayed.
I want to encourage you now, that whatever storm you may be foreseeing or going through, hold on. Hold on to Jesus Christ, and pray that His glory will be shown in the end.
Thank you to all who have reached out during this time. Lifestyle changes are about to ensue. This “storm” may nor be over for Carol and mom, but God is and will be with them the whole time.
Blessings to you and yours,
Stephanie
Mom and Carol this morning, as he waits to get his defibrillator in today.