It was a day I dreaded. After an appointment several weeks ago, it was time to return to my endodontist for yet another procedure. This specialized dentist is professional, personable and highly recommended. Yet I was not looking forward to enduring another visit. It would involve more needles, more drills, more medication, more work, more pressure, more pain, more time and more expense.
After the doctor finished, he kindly explained that complications had required more time and attention. In order to repair each section, he had to confront the depths of each section. I began thinking.
It doesn't take long to realize that our world is complicated. Pain, pressure and problems surround us. Each day is inundated with more shocking news, sadness, weariness and uncertainty. How are we supposed to handle all the hurt, questions, problems and conflict?
When the alarm went off early this morning, my first thought was to run...run away from this day...run far, far away from problems, pain and pressure. Maybe if I ignore it, it will go away. Yet I knew that the answer was not running from what was required...but facing what was needed in order to repair and restore my situation.
Interestingly, as my endodontist worked on my tooth, I noticed a bracelet on his wrist that read Proverbs 3: 5>8. I knew most of it since Proverbs 3: 5>6 is my favorite Scripture passage. Once I returned home, I read the entire passage his bracelet mentioned: "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight. Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear the Lord and shun evil. This will bring health to your body and nourishment to your bones."
What a wonderful reminder was placed in my face...literally...just when I needed it most! Life is complicated. Yet repair and restoration are possible. We don't even have to do it alone. For the One who repairs and restores is the very One Who holds us, heals us, loves us and leads us. Trusting Him makes each day purposeful, valuable and hopeful in the depths of my life. I am amazed. I am grateful. I am never alone.<3~thl
