Words of Endurance

We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials,
for we know that they help us develop endurance.
And endurance develops strength of character,
And character strengthens our confident hope of salvation.
And this hope will not lead to disappointment.
For we know how dearly God loves us,
because he has given us the Holy Spirit
to fill our hearts with his love.
ROMANS 5:3-5 (NLT)

I’ve learned a great deal since the advent of cancer in my life. I’ve learned how precious my wife and my children are. They were always important, but never more precious to me than they are now.

I’ve learned how important it is to serve other people. Time and again, I have been astonished and humbled by the loving concern shown me. I don’t think I’ll be the same after experiencing that.

Perhaps most of all, I’ve learned to put my life in God’s hands. The most difficult part of it all has been the uncertainty about my future. I had to learn to do what was within my grasp, one day at a time, and leave control of the rest in God’s loving capable hands.

Such are the lessons that come when a man faces adversity. I don’t think I could have gained them in any other way.

Though the Lord gave you adversity for food
and suffering for drink,
he will still be with you to teach you.
You will see your teacher with your own eyes.
ISAIAH 30:20 (NLT)

ON THE JOURNEY WITH YOU,
DAVE DRAVECKY