Great is Thy Faithfulness

The past few months I have seen the faithfulness of God shine in my life more than I ever have. About a month ago, I had a few tests done because I had been having sick spells fairly frequently and we wanted to make sure everything was fine. However, the tests didn't turn out as normal as we had hoped. We just got confirmation that I have been diagnosed with Crohn's disease.

Crohn's disease is an autoimmune disease, which means that my body is attacking itself. Unfortunately, doctor's do not know very much about Crohn's disease. They don't know what exactly causes it, and they don't at this point in time have a cure. All we do know is that where my small intestine meets my large intestine is very inflamed and my body is doing it to itself. It was difficult to diagnose because I am a very atypical Crohn's patient. I do not at all fit the mold so the treatment may be different for me. But there are treatment options. I go to my specialist again this coming week and he will work through what is the best option for me.

Although this is by no means ideal, I am so thankful. I am thankful that I am not the typical Crohn's patient. (It can be a completely debilitating disease for those that have it) I am thankful that this is not a surprise to my Savior. No part of this is out of His hands or out of His control. I would never have asked for this disease or the side effects that come from treatment but if it means a chance to rely on my Savior more and truly rest in His control then I will take it.

I asked the Lord for Him to reveal Himself to me. For Him to show me Himself in a greater and more tangible way and He has done that. Not at all in the way that I expected but, I see Him. I know that He is taking care of me and that He will guide and protect me. He is the great healer. If He so desires, I could be healed in an instant but if not; I will enjoy this sweet time I have resting in His care.

I do not know what this disease will mean for my future. Once we are able to get it into remission (with medications of some kind) I should live a normal life. However, we will have to see if that normal life can be away from America, overseas somewhere. Again, I rest that God has it in control and He will guide me. He has been faithful to this point and I know He will not leave me.

Thank you for your continued prayers and support. It seems like this new bend in the road has just begun and I know I will need prayers upon prayers to the miracle worker for this next part of the journey.

"Great is Thy faithfulness," O God my Father, 

There is no shadow of turning with Thee;

Thou changest not, Thy compassions, they fail not

As Thou hast been Thou forever wilt be. 

"Great is Thy faithfulness!" "Great is Thy faithfulness!" 

Morning by morning new mercies I see;

All I have needed Thy hand hath provided

"Great is Thy faithfulness," Lord, unto me!

Summer and winter, and springtime and harvest, 

Sun, moon and starts in their courses above, 

Join with all nature in manifold witness 

To Thy great faithfulness, mercy and love. 

Pardon for sin and a peace that endureth, 

Thy own dear presence to cheer and to guide;

Strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow,

Blessings all mine, and then thousand beside!