I Know Firsthand That It Isn't Easy
We're all going to walk through periods of darkness. Difficulties that we don't understand, that make us upset and afraid. But I believe that through His word, God prepares us and gives us the strength to face them. He has given us the way to find peace and strength for the battle. As hard as it may be to trust God when things don't make sense, for me it was my saving grace. I learned that in the midst of my highs and lows, God has a plan and a purpose for my life -- and sharing my testimony and the gospel is part of that purpose.
I know that not everyone will come through health challenges with a beautiful outcome, as I did. I guess, healing is still a mystery. And, for some, not being healed may be a necessary part of God's larger plan for them. I know that the Bible promises this in Isaiah 53:5:
But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed.
I believe that someday in Heaven we'll know why some are healed and some not. I do think God wants unwavering faith from us, regardless of what we see and feel. Often, people give up, stop believing and don't persevere in prayer, instead of prayer that is prolonged, sustained, and persevering over time. And some turn their backs on Him because they haven't gotten what they want. I can only tell you what I glean from Biblical instruction -- we should pray for the good things that we truly need, according to the will of God, in the authority of Jesus Christ, persistently, unselfishly and in faith.
I never gave up hope, and...
I NEVER STOPPED AND WILL NEVER STOP PUTTING MY FAITH IN JESUS.
Jeremiah 29:11
"For I know the plans I have for you,” says the LORD. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope."