Hey Everyone!

I hope you are having a great week so far. I thought I would take some time tonight to share some of my thoughts regarding being “stabilized and energized”.

I am feeling good and I have to say it’s good to feel this way. Tomorrow I have to go in for blood tests. Apparently, I am supposed to go in for a CBC blood test every two weeks to check levels relative to my liver, creatinine, etc., as well as to check my PB. In addition, once per month I have to have a Comprehensive Metabolic Profile. So, off I go tomorrow to get the tests so that I can be assured that I am not experiencing “liver toxicity”. Lately, I have been itching specifically on my head, I have a slight rash on my face, and my colour has changed to more of a tan look. These symptoms may indicate liver toxicity. I will be dropping my dosage back to 200 mg instead of my usual 100 mg to give my system a break. I have been so concerned about recovering from the Kidney Stone incident that I haven’t been following prescribed protocol—12 lashes to the man who has been in-compliant. Having said all of this, I feel renewed and energized that I have had a very good week and continue to trust that God is with me everyday. I am thankful for this feeling.

I have been making a point each morning in my devotionals to thank God for my circumstances because only He knows why this is my “cross to bare”. I don’t say that flippantly or disrespectful. I say this because I want to acknowledge Him as the one I look to for getting thru the storm. I think this circumstance truly creates in me a reliance on Him on a daily basis. There isn’t a day that goes by that I don’t call upon him in thought or prayer. I don’t believe God brought this on me. I believe that we live in a fallen, sinful world and stuff like this happens to all people no matter their faith or belief. However, as a Christian I believe that I can “tap” into the greatest power in the Universe thru my relationship with Christ. Therefore, I will do my best to move forward in faith knowing everything is possible, and everything is leading me to be where I was meant to be. I am reminded of a verse that Jesus told his Apostles while living on earth with them. Matthew 19:26 tells us that, “Jesus looked at them and said to them, “with men this is impossible, but with God all things are possible”.

So, if you find yourself in a storm look Heavenward. Seek the throne of Christ and ask him to walk with you to be strong and courageous. In Joshua 1:9, the Bible says the following; “Have I not commanded you? Be strong & courageous, do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go”.

Sending thoughts, prayer, and blessings out to all of you for whatever challenges and trials you are facing today and the rest of the week!

Craig (aka Papa G)