Yet We Prayed

In her first week of life my daughter had seizures, but the doctors could not find a cause. My husband and I were filled with anxiety as we contemplated her uncertain future. One day we both wept and prayed, “Lord Jesus, she is your child. We know you love her more than we possibly can. We will accept whatever outcome you decide.” My husband and I were terrified that our child would have a poor outcome. And yet we prayed and relinquished her to God’s care, knowing that, whatever the outcome, God would be with us.

Habakkuk was a prophet at a difficult period in Jewish history. The king was wicked, and the people worshiped false gods. They were facing an economic crisis and attacks by Babylonian soldiers. Habakkuk was in despair, yet he prayed, proclaiming that God was in control. Even if the crops failed and livestock died, he would rejoice in God’s strength and salvation. In the end, Habakkuk was convinced that he could trust God’s care, no matter how bleak the circumstances appeared.

My family also faced difficult and confusing circumstances following our daughter’s birth. And yet, like Habakkuk, we prayed a prayer of humble submission, trusting our daughter to God. Ultimately our daughter recovered with medication. Thanks be to God!