More from Mitzi Fears

It has been several fortnights since I wrote the devotional based on Philippians 4:6, so I had to ponder greatly on what to write for this blog post. I wish that I could share some amazing testimony about how God did something miraculous in my life since writing the devotional. But life is full of peaks and valleys, and I currently find myself exploring a valley with very rough terrain.

After writing the devotional, my mom was diagnosed with a serious health condition; I went from being a single, independent woman who loves traveling to gaining a new title of caregiver. I learned very quickly that this title is not for the faint of heart! My mom has a strong sense of independence, having served as my dad’s caregiver before he died. Because of this, our transition in roles has been filled with many explosive moments! There have been many sleepless nights, exhausting long days, and frequent moments of self-doubt.

The words of Philippians 4:6-7 have such a deeper, richer meaning to me now than when I first wrote my devotional.  During my most challenging days, Paul’s words continue to serve as a pillar for my heart and spirit. On days when I’ve convinced myself that I’m failing my mom, God reminds me to bring my thoughts and concerns to him in prayer. When my mind is flooded with thoughts of my mom’s prognosis, I am reminded not to worry but again to bring everything to God in prayer and with thanksgiving. Above all, the peace of God has been an anchor like none other during this season.

To be transparent, I had a lot of questions for God after receiving mom’s diagnosis. Why her? She’s been a faithful follower and servant of the Lord her entire life. Why me? I’ve dedicated my life to God and careful to follow God’s ways. During my moment of frustration, the Lord gently brought two scriptures to my spirit:

• Many are the afflictions of the righteous: but the LORD delivereth him out of them all. — Psalm 34:19 (KJV) 
• Jesus said, “These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.” — John 16:33 (KJV)

Why not us? I had to be reminded that as believers in Christ, we are not exempt from any challenges here on earth. However, despite the challenge God, through his word, constantly reminds us that he will be with us at every step. Each trial allows us the opportunity to experience God in a new way.

While I continue to encounter challenges daily, I am filled with hope and gratitude. I count it all joy to have the opportunity to honor my mother through caring for her. I’ve become more intentional about savoring our conversations and finding joy in mundane moments. What I thought would be a burden, I now see as a blessing because God has used this journey to reveal areas within me that needed to be pruned so that I can become a better reflection of God. 

In the book of Romans, Paul tells us that for believers in Christ, all things will work for our good—all things. This includes the good, bad, ugly, treacherous, disastrous, devastating, and delightful . . . all things. We don’t get to pick and choose the things that happen, but we can rest knowing that God is with us through it all. Not only is God with us, but he will also use each situation to transform you and bring glory back to God.