I remember back in the early 90's my young beautiful bride had torn the ligaments in her knee and the doctors said surgery would be required. We were missionaries at Teen Challenge of Kansas at the time. The following Sunday, one of the students asked if we could pray for her and if I believed God would heal her. Of course I had no choice but to agree. And I have to tell you I know her knee was healed partly because I felt the ligaments move back into place under my hand as we were praying. I know God performed a miracle that day. And indeed, that young man that came to me needing to know God would use him.
She was relatively healthy after that weekend until she was plagued by paralysis and a series of spine issues and surgeries. Over the last decade and a half she has had a series of problems that have caused incredible pain and expense. We've never been able to be able to have the best medical care or supplies or equipment. It has been a struggle.
Then just over five years ago, my illness became obvious to others and finally in September of 2015, I was put out on disability.
Over the years, hundreds if not thousands of people have prayed for the healing of my wife over dozens of occasions. People have also prayed for me.
Paul begged God three times to heal whatever it was that was plaguing him. But God told Paul that His grace was sufficient for Paul. I'll be honest. For me that's good enough! But when it comes to my wife, no I'm not satisfied.
My dear friend Pastor Bob Peet came by the house the other day and we talked about the fact that we have probably ministered to more people through the way we have lived through our difficulties than we would have if we had been healed miraculously.
I don't understand the will of God. I don't understand how He works. My friend Dave once asked me how could I be a man of science and yet believe in God. The answer is how couldn't I?
He has kept his promises to us again and again, bringing us peace and grace. My God loves me and though I can't see Him always, I shall believe.