When life is tough usually there are decisions to make. Hard decisions. Tiring decisions. Decisions where you have no idea how to choose the better option.
I developed poison ivy or sumac over the weekend. It hits me hard. Swelling. Itching. Burning.
It got my face this time. I woke on Sunday and poured my heart out to God praying that it wasn’t poison. Praying that he would take it away.
I then faced a decision. Turn to or turn from.
I told him how I much I loved him. How much I trusted him. That no matter if the poison left or stayed. I know that He would be by my side regardless.
If I have to face this, I can do it. There’s a purpose. Some positive lesson I can learn. Some perspective I can glean. Some advice I could share.
I then faced a decision.
To take the meds or not.
Benefits: relief from the itching, reduce swelling.
Negative side effects: weight gain, extreme irritability, fear of the unknown. Can you tell I’m not good with taking meds?
Not taking drugs.
Benefits: Look like an alien for 5-7 days. Burning, itching sensation. Swelling of my entire eye area.
Benefits: No fear of side effects.
I seek a neighbor friend for advice. I call my mom. I weigh my options. This takes much more time than the typical person. Ask my husband.
My daughter interrupts our conversation saying she ‘thinks’ there is something in her ear.
I hang up the phone. I grill her with questions. She has a small water bead in her ear. She put it in there. I feel the pressure and frustration rising in me.
I try tweezers. I can barely see it. I seek another friends advice. I try a syringe. I rack my brain. I Google. I debate the trip to the urgent care.
Then I think to pray. Wait. Shouldn’t that have gone a little differently?
God, help me. I have no idea what I’m doing. God, in your great love and mercy please reach down and give me wisdom and peace.
Today I’m faced with difficult decisions. They are nothing compared to what some of you are dealing with. I pray for wisdom and peace for you as well.
Decisions are difficult. Decisions can be painful.
Life hurts some days. How do I choose what is best God? How do I decide?
I choose to be listening for your wisdom. I choose to be growing in the peace only you can give.
I choose you.
When I choose you it can only get easier.
What are you facing today?
What you are dealing with may be difficult? God is near.
Isaiah 26:3 You will keep in perfect peace all who trust in you, all whose thoughts are fixed on you!
Casey says
Good to hear. How many times do I try to “deal” without including God in my day? Too many.
Did you get the bead out of her ear?!
Melanie says
Yes, had to take her to urgent care. They got it out within moments. Thanks Casey!