Monday, November 4, 2013

Giving Thanks




Yesterday was the first day I felt awful in a while. Honestly I am not sure how I made it out of bed much less to church. In the midst of feeling positively horrible, two people encouraged me through simple words and actions. A friend who has been faithfully praying for me for two years came up to give me my Sunday hug. She asked how I was and I told her I wasn't feeling good. She kindly told me, "I can see it in your eyes." and then prayed for me right then and there.

I can't tell you how much her words meant to me. Usually someone would respond with, "Well you look great." I know those words are meant with the kindest intentions but usually I walk away feeling like I need to prove how poorly I feel. But of course that is just my pride getting in the way. Hearing that she could see my pain gave me a feeling of peace. She saw the pain and then she prayed for me. My body may not have felt any better but her words were a balm to my soul.

After church we went over to a friend's house. I wasn't feeling up to it but I knew I needed the encouragement that comes from fellowship with others. As soon as my Auntie heard I didn't feel good she went over to the couch and made sure I had a place to rest after we ate lunch. She even put a stool right beside the couch so I could put my tea on it. I so appreciated the time she took to do that. Her thoughtfulness helped give me the rest I desperately needed. 

Sometimes it is the simplest things that touch your heart. I am so thankful that in the midst of pain God can bring joy.