June 24, 2006 "Without weakening in his faith..."

“Without weakening in his faith, he faced the fact that his body was as good as dead - since he was about 100 years old - and that Sarah’s womb was also dead. 20. Yet he did not waver through unbelief regarding the promise of God, but was strengthened in his faith and gave glory to God, 21. Being fully persuaded that God had power to do what He had promised.” Romans 4:19-21

I was looking for a different verse but saw a star in the margin next to this verse and a star next to the footnote explaining this verse. The footnote: verse 19 - Abraham had some anxious moments but God did not count these against him. Faith does not refuse to face reality but looks beyond all difficulty to God and His promises. Verse 20 - because Abraham had faith to believe that God would do what He promised. Whereas works are man’s attempt to establish a claim on God, faith brings glory to him.

I like these verses because I have had my anxious moments-I will tell you about one in a moment- but in every one either through His word or encouragement of family and friends God’s promises have been true. My faith has been strengthened and I see each day it is God’s power in me and He deserves all the glory.

Whitney had another day of great accomplishment. She hopped up a curb using her walker, she easily transferred herself from wheelchair to bed or chair. She practiced some of the same games on the computer and the improvement is remarkable and substantial. Her math calculations have also gotten faster.

We were given a weekend leave from the hospital. In order for us to do so, I needed to be able to give her a shot that she receives nightly. After some training, it was my turn for real. Whitney dislikes this shot because she has to take it in her belly and it stings. She usually asks one of us to hold her hand and distract her as she receives it. Today it was just me and Dan, one of the nurses. I got ready, Whitney looked at Dan and asked him to hold her hand. I was as frightened as she was but I did it successfully that they trust me enough to do it on my own tomorrow when we are away from the center.

Whitney, Carly and I left the hospital and were joined by Sandra, Tara, Matt and DJ. We ate dinner and listened to camp stories. I am so proud of them for allowing God to use them as counselors at camp. Spring Hill has great memories for Carly and Whitney, it was there during their growing up years that they felt closest to God. Some family friends came over and brought the dvd “Chronicles of Narnia”. We talked, ate popcorn and relaxed till late.

What a perfect Friday night! As I helped Whitney climb into bed, I thanked God for His faithfulness, power and love.

With love, Whit’s mom