Times of Developing: Courage, Confidence, Patient Endurance, Character, Joy, & Power to Endure (Part 2)

Posted on October 3, 2019 by America's Keswick in Victory Call

I invite you to re-read the following verses.  Know that the italics are mine.

John 16:33b The Passion Translation (TPT)
For in this unbelieving world you will experience trouble and sorrows, but you must be courageous, for I have conquered the world!”
Romans 5:3-4 The Passion Translation (TPT)

But that’s not all! Even in times of trouble we have a joyful confidence, knowing that our pressures will develop in us patient enduranceAnd patient endurance will refine our character, and proven character leads us back to hope.

James 1:2-3 The Passion Translation (TPT)

My fellow believers, when it seems as though you are facing nothing but difficulties see it as an invaluable opportunity to experience the greatest joy that you can! For you know that when your faith is tested it stirs up power within you to endure all things.

And so in my journey for healing……I continued to ask for prayer as to what I should do.  At first I went to several doctors who told me that they did not believe the implants were my problem.  If it were not for our God, I do not know how I would have pressed on.  Some things recommended to me by these doctors were incredibly risky and scary.  Nevertheless, God showed Himself strong and was faithful to reveal His plan. When days got hard I put on worship music.  I developed power to endure.  It’s amazing, in the presence of the sound of worship, the mind begins to find peace.

It may be hard for you to receive this because I know we often say that it is not wise to make choices based on “feelings.”  That is true but please do not confuse fleeting feelings with the gift of discernment and a peace beyond understanding.  That discernment led me to an expert in breast implant illness.  I will always give God the glory for leading me to His plan for my healing.  I had to travel one and a half hours from my home, but when I met Dr. Buinewicz, I knew he was the surgeon God led me to.  At this point I was in chronic pain.  I could hardly move my body.  I had frequent fevers and was exhausted all the time.  God led me to a doctor who understood exactly what was happening and diagnosed me with Breast Implant Illness (BII).  I made the appointment to get those toxic, cancer causing implants removed.  I had to wait about two months, which seemed like an eternity.  More endurance!!  I also came to a much more sympathetic place for people in chronic pain.  I understood how without Christ, they often end their lives. Anyway, back to me…I was advised to go to a surgical center in PA because of my history with anesthesia. My God provided surgeons who wanted me to use their pain management team.  My husband, who was incredibly supportive, stayed with me in a hotel for just under a week, as recommended, so we would be near the doctor in case of any problems.

I had the surgery on July 12th.  My healing began.  I had no problem recovering from anesthesia.  Immediately upon waking, I had no chronic pain, only some discomfort.  I never needed pain medication. I could walk slowly.  My range of motion improved.  I have not had a fever since the implants were removed.  Over the summer, by God’s grace, I have worked on my healing of body and spirit.  I have been delighted with the time to study the Word, to walk for miles a day, to stretch, and to ride my bike.  I can now walk fast and even run across the street if necessary.  My range of motion can still improve more but it is soooo much better.  I had one blood test that indicated I no longer have an immune deficiency.  Soon I have to go to repeat some tests.  I am confident that He who began a good work in this woman will continue that good work until the day of Christ Jesus.  I am confident my blood work and lymph nodes will be fine.

Times of trial are never easy but what I have learned is that the Word of God is true.  Whatever you are going through, hold onto His Word, put on worship music, trust God NO MATTER WHAT and keep at least one or two dear sisters holding up your arms!!  Our God is an awesome God.  He reigns on heaven and earth, if you let Him.

Blessings,

Patricia Wenzel

Written by Pat Wenzel: Rev. Patricia Wenzel is the founder and director of a state wide prayer ministry, PRAY New Jersey Inc. since 2002.  The ministry is committed to praying for and blessing those serving in authority positions in our state, particularly in government.  The ministry is also committed to equipping the saints to pray for those serving in government.  The vision and ministry is guided by the Word of God, in particular 1 Tim. 2:1-4 and Is. 61:11.  Pat is thankful for the ministry of America’s Keswick.  She graduated from Women of Character in July 2008. 

Think About This: Christ is the Good Physician. There is no disease He cannot heal; no sin He cannot remove; no trouble He cannot help. He is the Balm of Gilead, the Great Physician who has never yet failed to heal all the spiritual maladies of every soul that has come unto Him in faith and prayer. – James H. Aughey

The Daily Bible Reading: Ezekiel 33-34, John 16| You can download our 2019 Daily Bible Reading Plan by clicking here

This Week’s Verse to Memorize: Have mercy upon me, O God, according to Your lovingkindness; according to the multitude of Your tender mercies, blot out my transgressions. Wash me thoroughly from my iniquity, and cleanse me from my sin. – Psalm 51:1-2

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the doctrinal and theological views held by America’s Keswick.

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