Falling Apart or Pulling Together?
Just a short time ago I was taking the morning to be still, making a break from the normal routines. I’d like to say it was because I am so sensitive to the leading of the Holy Spirit. Well, sometimes the Holy Spirit has means we are unaware of. I was resting that day because it was a restless night.
So on that morning, I sat listening because I had an annoying painful injury; this time it’s my right knee. It happened, ironically, because I was trying to stay in shape. I know, I know, I should do these things with more caution at my age.
You may have heard the old joke: you know you are old when everything hurts, and what doesn’t hurt doesn’t work! I will admit I am falling apart. It is funny how today we rage against the inevitable reality of getting old.
I have a friend who would often say, “I know I am going down, but I’m not going down without a fight.” We’d laughed because . . . because we were young and thought, “We will be different; we’ll beat the odds. We will be like Louis Zamperini skateboarding at 90.” Today, we might not laugh as hard. Fighting or not, we are going to fall apart.
I have another (wiser) friend who, when dealing with the many “issues” her body has presented recently, simply admits, “The rubber bands (tendons, ligaments, and stuff that sprains so easily) are wearing out.” Amen, sister.
Thankfully, my body isn’t all that I am! I have a soul that lives in this tent that has seen better days. I have often heard that “a Bible that is falling apart often belongs to a life that isn’t.” So while the old rubber bands are indeed wearing out, and the ice bag on my knee needs changing, I can rejoice that the most important things in my life will only get stronger and more beautiful in time.
Unfortunately, the means of becoming someone beautiful in God’s eyes can be painful—so painful we may be tempted to throw in the towel. But God’s plan to make us into the image of His own dear Son is relentless. He will chase us down and insist we stay with His program. We know He loves us, even when we don’t feel it.
There’s a very high, holy word we use to describe the process of becoming beautiful in His eyes. It is called sanctification. God intends to make us like Himself because He knows it is the only way we will be truly holy, truly happy.
But don’t let this big theological word fly over your heads. It is intensely practical. Ask your family, and your close friends, and you will know exactly the state of your sanctification.
Perhaps you think to be sanctified (i.e., holy) means spending hours on our knees or poring over ancient Greek and Hebrew commentaries. Maybe. We certainly all could afford to spend more time praying and studying. And this may indeed be a means God will use to sanctify us. But not necessarily. In 1 Thessalonians 4:1–12, Paul tells us how he expected sanctification would look to a watching world:
- True believers will make a clean break with immorality (verse 3). Interesting, isn’t it, that it begins in such tangible, traceable ways as this?
- They won’t take advantage of a brother or sister (verse 6).
- They will be receptive to instruction and correction from others and God’s Word (verse 8).
- They will love and care for one another (verse 9).
- They will make it an ambition to lead a quiet life (verse 11). Now that is a novel thought. Often we get addicted to living for the next thrill, the next excitement . . . The energy water sold to us is called Monster, Red Bull, Venom—everything is bigger, faster.
- Believers should work hard and be busy minding their own business. If we do these things we will win the respect of others! (verse 12).
We can be confident we have a Savior who has prayed, and still prays, for our sanctification (read John 17). Here is a just snippet of that prayer Jesus prayed:
My prayer is not that you take them (insert your name) out of the world but that you protect them from the evil one. They are not of the world, even as I am not of it. Sanctify them by the truth; your word is truth. As you sent me into the world, I have sent them into the world. For them I sanctify myself, that they too may be truly sanctified.
So today, in one sense, some things are falling apart. But today, as I meditate over the wonder and means of my sanctification, things should be pulling together beautifully.
68 comments
Maribel | May 29, 2013
Thank you for sharing this word. It ministered to me that even the outer is perishing, inwardly we are being renewed everyday.
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Leslie Geris | May 29, 2013
This has blessed me tremendously. I too am in that place of wearing out. I love my age, and appreciate the life the Lord has given me. I thank you for your wisdom; it is touching my heart. Thank you that as a women your heart is for us.
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Barbaraj Burdon | May 29, 2013
Thank you Cathe for the uplifting words. I feel in my life GOD is wanting me closer to Him everyday. Sometimes I get busy but He is Always there to remind me, I Praise His name. I am new to you and your husband's ministry, it's wonderful and very uplifting. I am engaged and we are really eating your advice and Godly words up. Thank you so much Pastor Greg and Cathe. GOD bless you both <3
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Diane Whittington | May 29, 2013
Inserting my name in the prayer that Jesus prayed, suddenly had a lot more meaning! Kind of a "light bulb came on"! Thanks Cathe for sharing with us.
Gael | May 29, 2013
It really does encourage you when you put your name in the prayer and realize Jesus is talking to you. Sometimes we think He is talking to other people, probably because we think we are not worthy. But we are all one in His eyes. Thanks.
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Dusti | May 29, 2013
Cathe you are such an inspiration ... A proverbs woman ! I don't attend Harvest anymore but I Love getting these emails !!!!! I have been going thru a process myself God used a heart condition I like you am active great shape ect but God has shown me so much that I needed to see in my down time :) praise God for u and Pastor Greg!!! Praying always for u both!!
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Christina Ritner | May 29, 2013
I have been a parishioner of Harvest Christian Fellowship for almost 30 years, even though God has taken me physically to other parts of the world. And all I can say after reading this entry is this: we cannot fathom the plans God has for us for our welfare ( Jereimiah 29: 11). This is the verse God has given me for my life. Thank you Cathe for refocusing me on God's plan and not my own. It is very tempting when you have been a Christian for most of your life to think you are doing OK. But the truth is, as long as we live on this earth we have a purpose to fulfill. Sometimes, in some seasons, it is to preach the gospel, sometimes in some seasons, it is to water the seeds someone else has planted. Sometimes it is to harvest what others have sown, and SOMETIMES it is to just thank GOD that HE loves us and has helped us through thus far in this life. Thank you for your encouragement and I hope that some women out there realize that we are just where He wants us to be no matter where we are.
Donna Smylie | May 30, 2013
I would like to thank Cathe and all the women of faith that have touched my heart. All of you have given me strength, hope, courage, and the faith to carry on, no matter what my circumstances are or have been.
I became disabled when I thought life was a joy and could get no better than this. I found out quickly that my life would forever be changed because of the disability and the need for medication. It stripped me of my job, my volunteer work, which was definitely helping me more than the message of hope and promise of freedom, I was carrying. I lost all my "friends" and even my family looked at me differently. However, they see that my faith is still strong and they even email or call me from Virginia to get answers because of my knowledge of the Bible.
I have relied on God and His Word most of my life and now rely on God's love and accept my situation as it is today. Just for today, I am married to a Godly man and we are taken care of well.
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Lana Claunch | May 29, 2013
You have nooo idea...but I know you do, how much I needed these words today. In the "record book of bad days", today was a doozey! But your reminder of Jesus' own words in John 17 put my heart and mind back in the right frame of mind. I confess I was on a roller coaster of a day in my heart. Things came out of my mouth, (therefore my heart), that I despise, and in the next breath came, "Forgive me God...help me get these dark, dark feelings out of my mind and soul". I knew I was "in the world" then, but soon after, here they came again. Thank you for the reminder that, even though I had/felt/said those dark feelings, Jesus was always there waiting and never letting go of my hand...though I'm sure He flinched a few times. He LOVES me. And that is what matters... :)
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Dawn Stouff | May 29, 2013
I'm so with you, Cathe, the falling apart, that is! I've spent my lifetime being athletic and loving every minute of it. Wouldn't change a thing. But the parts, well, need replacement. Worn out! You are so right, illustrating how the Love our Lord has for us NEVER wears out, gets tired or needs replacement. Thank you for the encouragement, sister!
Baruch,
Dawn
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Blanca Luyando | May 29, 2013
Thank you Cathe for the uplifting words. I'm trying to get more of God.
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Clara | May 29, 2013
Thanks Cathe for such encouraging words. Yes, the scripture comes to mind: 2 Corinthians 4:16
Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. God bless you & your ministry.
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Linda Hitzeroth | May 29, 2013
The good part about growing old..."Nearer My God to Thee." Age also has a way of focusing our thoughts on finishing well. Thank you for pointing us toward a good finish, Cathe.
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April | May 29, 2013
Cathe,
Thank you for such wise and Godly words...what an encouragement and reminder to us to keep on in this journey with our eyes on Jesus. I've never been to Harvest but have listened to a Pastor Greg on A New Beginning for as long as I think it's been on the radio. In 1976 I was saved at Calvary Chapel Costa Mesa at a mid week service by Greg and Pastor Chuck. I'm so grateful that I accepted the invitation to go to CCCM with my friend that night! Anyway, God Bless you and Greg..one day I hope to hug your necks!!
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Tencha | May 29, 2013
I don't attend Harvest, but listen to Greg and just recently started reading or following your bible studies. My sister, Tina lead me to your site and I am so thankful. I want to follow and find peace in my life. I am trying so hard to learn and walk with the Lord. You and your husband are very inspiring!!
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Veronica Bosak | May 29, 2013
Thank you so much Cathe for these inspiring words. I know in my heart that as long as I am always focused on Jesus I will get stronger. I attended Harvest for 3 years but I had to move to another area. I pray everyday, if it is God's will that I will be blessed and one day be back at Harvest.
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Martha Royer | May 29, 2013
WOW Cathe, this ministered to me so much! I too have been "falling apart" lately. At 62, I have been experiencing a new diagnosis almost monthly! I know though that my JOY and my spiritual health are more important to me than my physical health.....but your encouragement has helped me keep my focus on my Lord and my sanctification. These words of wisdom coming from you are powerful indeed! You have been put "through the refining fire" and now your encouragement shines to me like gold!
Thank You Cathe! God has truly blessed our church with you and your hubby!
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Sandie Park | May 29, 2013
Cathe,
As a woman in my early 70"s I often feel those aches and pains of the body more than ever. Yes I grouch about them but I also praise my Lord that I can still grouch and He leads me to pray for those who may have more and worse pain than I do. Often my pain leads me to pray for and reach out to those whose pain may be of the heart as well as the body.
Thank you for your insight,
May the Lord continue to lift you up and guide each moment of your walk with Him.
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Barb | May 29, 2013
Refreshing, and yes some points you made are novel. Thank you Cathe.
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Alice | May 29, 2013
Thanks Cathe and Greg. I have 5 adult kids and 11 grand kids. At times, when my grand kids get disciplined by their parents, I have to remember that verse 1 Thessalonians 11:12 and to mind my own business. That's hard as a grandparent. Our family has been going to Harvest since 1978. Now our children and grandchildren have given their hearts to the Lord at Harvest. Thanks so much.
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Lori | May 29, 2013
Aw..thank you Cathe I needed that I've been so discouraged lately and I started Prayer & Share class & I'm really being attacked... so I thank you for all your godly wisdom.. I need to remember God does love us even when we are going thru trials and tribulations. He is praying for us to the Father!
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Linda Hall | May 30, 2013
I suppose we're in the same age bracket! My knee is healing with some great synthetic stuff I've had injected twice. One more treatment to go. I'm a candidate for knee replacement, but I'm one year out from cancer. I appreciate the prayer of Our Lord that He brought to your mind and heart. I live in an unknown place, but nonetheless it's a win/win situation; either here or there with Him, I win either way. In my mind's eye, I am but an injured sheep He carries.
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Janey | May 30, 2013
These words were meant for me today, as I am here resting up my right knee from trying to keep in shape too! It's so funny and true what you say about getting older and the battling with the body which just won't keep up. Thank you for your words of wisdom and encouragement.
God bless you Cathe x
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Jenn (Student Mom) | May 30, 2013
That's awesome. I'm glad I read your post today.
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Mary Lou Holmes | May 30, 2013
Awesome Cathe. Thank you! I loved your analogy and I too can identify with various aches and pains at "our age." But I never thought about my life as well worn but a working perfection inside!! Wow! It gets better? When we are with the Lord, it certainly does!! Amen and amen
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Marette | May 30, 2013
Cathe,
How I needed to read your words of wisdom this morning. I too am falling apart physically. Sometimes I wake up and wonder how I can make it another day. Those painful joints, swollen knee, etc. remind me to praise Him. I desire to remain close to Him, but sometimes when I am feeling healthy and strong I begin to wander to the outside edge of His pasture. The pain reminds me to go to my Shepherd and stay near His side. It also reminds me to praise Him for the things I take for granted. Eyes that see, ears that hear, a heart that beats, my every breath, etc.
Thank you for your honesty and encouragement !!!!!!!!!
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Rachael | May 30, 2013
Interjecting my name into the prayer was very humbling. I cannot say more as I am overwhelmed.
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Pat | May 30, 2013
Dear Cathe,
I am "only" 62 years old and in really good health, but I have experienced some injury to a few discs, so I know the feeling of being limited in what I can do physically. It has caused me to do things that I have always disliked tremendously which are to ask for help and to have to depend on someone else to do things in their time, not mine. Wow, how humbling! Doesn't God know exactly how to get us where He wants us to be? His wisdom and love are amazing and never ending.
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Norma Durbin | May 30, 2013
Thank you Cathe for that refreshing commentary..... I know exactly what you mean by your body falling apart. I'm going to turn 50 in December and the mind is willing but the body isn't as far as running anymore. I love the part where you are talking about the fact that we don't need to worry so much about our "tent", but reflect more on our sanctification. I so easily forget that our Lord prays for us. I'm so busy praying for others, that I forget HE is constantly praying and interceding on our behalf, and for all things so that we may become Holy before the Father... This was a good reminder for me.... thank you again :-)
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Cristina Thomas | May 30, 2013
Thank you. The closer I become with God the more time I spend crying. I am a sinner, praying constantly. I'm doing everything to live right by God. I listen every morning to pastor Greg or I read his daily devotion, and suddenly I was blessed with your devotion Cathe. God is good, I am desperate to have more girlfriends in God. I'm looking forward to the next one. Cristina
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Debbie | May 30, 2013
Good Morning,
My Jesus is Awesome! Thank you for sending the pray in John 17. This reminds me I'm prayed for by my Jesus and Loved and I'm not of this world but heavens!
Thank you so much for sending this email. I look forward to it.
Have a wonderful day in Jesus!
Thank you,
Debbie.
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Rose | May 30, 2013
Cathe,
Thank you for your encouraging and uplifting words. Putting my name in that prayer makes it more personal
and powerful! I look forward to your comments. I listen to Pastor Greg on the radio. Would love to come visit
Harvest someday! Blessings to you and your husband.
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Tiffany Caballero | May 30, 2013
I know the feeling. I recently have been diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis only at the age of 25 and I'm feeling so much older because of the pain and struggling to do certain things. But thank the Lord that He is in control and He is giving me the strength to go on day by day.
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Patsy | May 30, 2013
Beautifully spoken. Can I relate! Thank you for the encouragement!
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Shelly Ng | May 30, 2013
Thank you for sharing to me. Now I also can feel pain in some of my body and legs. I'm really worried that's why I'm not taking care slowly, because I know I abuse myself in terms of work. Thanks to God for saving me always.
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Rebecca | May 30, 2013
Thank you for sharing your wisdom and encouragement!
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Margo Thornton | May 30, 2013
What a wonderful reminder to be still and know that He is God! One day when we dwell with the King of Glory, our aches and pains will be a thing of the past!
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Kathi | May 30, 2013
Thank you Cathe for the beautiful reminder.
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Billie | May 30, 2013
Dear Cathe,
Thank you for your words from the heart. Your words of encouragement have given me something to think about. Being right with God is so important. I know Jesus is with me, always by my side. I thank God for giving me His Holy Spirit to dwell within me. I know I'm a work in progress and I have a long way to go. Listening to Pastor Greg is a blessing. His teaching is the truth of God's word. Thank you for your insights, they touch my heart. May God bless you both and your family.
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Olivia Belk | May 30, 2013
I got a good laugh out of this story. It came close to me because there are some body parts falling apart. Thanks be to God for His healing power. I keep going no matter what and more so when I am reading the Word everyday and praying everyday. When you mention the knee and other body parts, I said she is looking through my window (smile). Thank God for you Cathe and your husband Pastor Greg. You all have a God filled day in the Lord. Don't give up keep going like that Energizer battery rabbit.
Sis. Olivia Belk
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Therese | May 30, 2013
Thank you Cathe,
I was training for a marathon and also injured my knee in the process...I feel your pain. I guess we're not 25 any more!
I think the Lord sometimes wants us to slow down a little and just rest awhile.
I really like your notation that God is relentless in making us more like Jesus. Yes and definitely it is painful.
I think of you and Greg that you have lost a son and I can't imagine that pain. Since losing my dear
husband over 7 yrs ago God has worked more on me through many painful, difficult situations than
ever before. But I do know that through it all He has made me stronger through Him. He is in control and is so faithful! I just know I can't live without Him and His Word.
I have listend to Greg for years and truly relate to the way he teaches and conveys God's truth. It has been a real blessing and touches me in many instances.
Thank you for your ministry and being such a blessing to others.
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Gloria | May 30, 2013
Cathe, thank you so much for this beautifully written, thoughtful piece on what it means to be beautiful to Him. It's amazing to me how impatient I am with my imperfection when contrasted against His seemingly endless patience in molding me toward the woman He wants me to be. Little by little, He has been pulling me together. Thanks for reminding me of that!
Gloria M.
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Jen | May 30, 2013
First off I want to thank you so much for sharing this story. The title caught my attention because I feel like I'm either falling apart or I'm getting pulled in so many directions I'm going to break apart, either one isn't a good feeling. I'm getting married on July 6th and if you have ever planned a wedding you know all the "things" that go along with it, aka stress. I've been working out and running a lot so I can look my best on the big day. Now I have injured my foot, I am going to the doctor for a bone scan but for now I'm trying to work through it. A couple of weeks ago someone told me how well I was handling everything that I have going on but today it seems like I'm feeling the full weight of EVERYTHING that I have been trying to keep up with, to the point where I was on the verge of tears at work because of the pain in my foot and being so overwhelmed. Thank you so much this story has given me encouragement.
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Jeanette Ayotte | May 30, 2013
Thank you Cathe, my mom and I are reading this together, laughing, enjoying each others grunts of agreement to your iterations, and thankful to be amongst great fellowship. Praying for your knee!
- Jeanette
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Stacy H. | May 30, 2013
Such sweet inspiring words you've written for us Cathe. I'm in your young age bracket...& also feeling "things" wearing out. I have secondary progressive MS & I thank God every day for what I CAN do - & try not to beat myself up for what I cannot! In addition to your words, it is the PHOTOGRAPH of you on the rocky terrain that God has used in reminding me to SLOW DOWN! I do believe the enemy uses EVERY TYPE OF DISTRACTION there is (for me: Houzz, Etsy, email, Facebook, Pinterest...and on and on) to keep me away from true intimate quiet time with our loving relentless God. And thank you for that relentless scripture! Your ministry with all the dear women who submit their comments are a HUGE BLESSING in my life!!! :)
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Janice Driscoll | May 30, 2013
Cathe....God bless you for your incredible words. I am 59 & have had parts giving out since 1998. Some times have been so bad I have been taken to the hospital, and sometimes had to stay in for awhile. It is very hard, but GOD gets me through each thing. I used to let my health "define" me...and that is all I talked about with anyone. I still have many things wrong, and get even more thrown on along my journey, but have learned that I have to just get up every morning, and tell myself.."OK, this is how I feel today, so what is it that I need to take care of today." It is so much easier!
I pray that this "mindset" will help many others...
God bless you and heal you soon....
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Laura | May 30, 2013
Yes Cathe! I feel it! Haha. I recently took a fall down a flight of concrete steps at a baseball game. I guess I was moving too fast. God has a way of slowing us down. Anyway 4 broken bones and assorted cuts and bruises (especially ribs. Ouch!) have definitely slowed me down. I have made the best of my time off my feet. Seeking Him and His purposes in all these things. He is great and worthy to be praised!
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Wendy | May 30, 2013
Words cannot express how much I can relate to this article. I am currently going through a break up of a relationship with a non-believer of almost 4 years. And I often find myself missing my old life and him so much. But as step one says: True believers will make a clean break with immorality, and as I read on.. wow!! I know that I should not be doubting in God's perfect will for my life. It hurts everyday but I truly believe that the sanctification process is exactly what I'm going through. God bless you Cathe for sharing this in a much needed time in my life! :)
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Trudy | May 30, 2013
That was an in season word for me!!! Thank you for sharing it in such a time as this, meaning my 50's, lol....And the wonderful reminder of sanctification!!!
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Judith Giliomee | May 31, 2013
Although I have never been to university I have letters after my name, now, in my seventieth year. LWWBP, which stands for LIVING WITH WORN BODY PARTS! Grateful that the Lord has spared me this long, and love His promise:"As your days are, so your strength will be". Deut. 33-25. This keeps me going! Praise the Lord.
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Rosemary | May 31, 2013
Cathe,
Thanks for this...the same day I received it, I broke my toe! It has effected my walk...I limp now...it has effected my balance..I am leaning more to the right now...it has been painful! Miraculously I had an ah ha moment-in the midst of the pain. As it relates to my walk,have I been limping along in my intimacy with God? Just barely making time...am I lacking balance in my walk with Him..too much phone time, not enough throne time?? Prayer but no word, the word but no prayer?I read recently it takes the whole bible to make a whole Christian, is it painfully obvious that I need to lean more on HIM, I am desperate for HIM, the lover of my soul, apart from Him I can do nothing (especially walk around a sofa as opposed to walking into it:( ) I was thinking about the abiding process- the vine, (Jesus), and the branch (me)..my primary function is to "hang there" by the strength of the vine, be sustained there by the nutrients therein, and watch the fruit grow... Resting in Him, now!
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Susan | May 31, 2013
Profound. Honest. Superbly written from the heart. May you, Cathe, continue to be blessed beyond measure. Your words are a treasure to me. God Bless.
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BarbaraJean | May 31, 2013
I too know that my body is no longer young. I will be 79 next week, but thankfully and blessedly, the Lord has helped me to continue to at least remain mobile almost all the time. I thank Him daily for giving me the strength to do all that I need to do. Some of it is His calling, and some is just plain every day stuff. And also being there for my younger sister (18 years younger) who is in worse physical shape than I am. She needs someone in her life she can count upon and since she lives not far from me I am that someone. I am also her encourager, for her to continue trusting in God and to become stronger in Him as well. I do have my quiet times with Him when I either pray or just talk or just sit and listen to Him. I pray that your knee will heal quickly, but that you also have enjoyed your quiet time with the Lord.
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Michelle Valdez | June 1, 2013
I have been struggling with heart aches being not so young and it's not because of my age. I am not one who freaks out about being 30, 40 and now at the door of 50. I love getting older however I do not love my body getting older. It's been very depressing with bad knees and loss of cartilage at my tailbone which make my back yucky. I am an accounting person for a large lighting company so I sit a lot for work. It makes much pain for my tailbone. Everyday I struggle, but your message made me think!!! Yes I sure do need a new body and I so look forward to a new one, but my race is not finished. I need to pay more attention to the Holy Spirit leading me and less to my aches and pains and worries of this life. I have new works for God and His kingdom even if it's staying home praying.......I so do enjoy my time with God. Press forward and keep going no matter what happens to the body, His Spirit keeps going. Thank you Cathe. Keep up the good messages we so do need.
God Bless Michelle
Christina | June 3, 2013
My sympathies add to all of yours.
Aging is a process of life. And I am grateful that I am 71 and able to do all I can. My dad died at 68 (throat cancer from smoking) and missed so much. But I think about Jesus - He died at 33 and never had the chance to age, to learn all the things an older person can hold in his/her heart. I wonder what he would have been like at my age!
Yes, I also hurt at 71. I have 2 knee replacements, and my back hurts when I sit too long as an author. I take a short break every 1 1/2 to 2 hours and take that "cigarette break" (I've never smoked in my life and always thought it unfair that I wasn't permitted a cig. break as those smokers had!!)
But I thank God every day I rise - for the sun shining, for the sound and smell of the ocean, the bird songs outside my window, and for my family. And - for Greg's broadcast every morning- really! It always touches my heart.
And thanks, Cathe, for your inspirations also.
Christina
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Laurie | June 1, 2013
I can completely understand lying in my bed healing from a hip surgery and a fracture in the other leg. This is the result from being hit by a car in the crosswalk going into the grocery store in my wheelchair. This happened about 5 weeks ago and I must wear a brace on the one leg with the fracture. I ice both constantly rotating the ice packs in freezer and sitting in my wheelchair for a couple hours until I can no longer stand the pain and must return to bed. I am being "sanctified" in that I was not praying or reading the word very much before this happened. So now I am praying, reading and spending much time with the Lord and it is good, so good! You see I am a paraplegic too so these injuries are added onto my spinal cord injury that happened in 1993. I rely on God's strength every moment of the day to get me thru it. As I age, and I am not young anymore, my body gets more beat up but my spirit grows strong and that is all that matters to me is that I grow close to Jesus and glorify Him.
Marilisa | June 6, 2013
Thank you for sharing and God bless you! Hugs! You are amazing!
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Kathy | June 2, 2013
Thanks for allowing our Father Lord God to talk thru you to me at this very tearful time in my life.....you really really hit home!!!
May God Bless you also at this time in your walk!!!
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Dray | June 2, 2013
This article has presented itself three times in as many days, yet, until this morning I had not read it. I now believe the Lord intends for me to read it! Falling apart or Pulling together, is quite 'catchy' when scanning through reading materials for Christian Women. Although this article was about physical changes our bodies make when we age, it is so much more and relates to so many more avenues in our lives. Today I choose to "Pull Together" during a season (10+ years) of an ever increasing difficult marriage. I have been married for almost 26 years, but the season I refer to is the past 10 years. I will be exceedingly grateful when this season ends, however God sees fit for that to happen. The battle between flesh and spirit in my home is at an all time high. Last night, my husband said that he does not love God, never has, but wants too. All the while professing he is a Christian...can someone not love God and still be a Christian? I'm pulling together, this battle is real...
Deborah | June 25, 2013
I was reading your response and was caught by the fact that your husband "wants to" love God. This shouts to me God is working in his heart. Don't you lose heart. Keep praying. God is our strength.
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Jo | June 2, 2013
My body has been old since my teens. I have Degenerative Lumbar Scoliosis (curvature of the lower spine)! My body has a new pain everyday, but most days I DON'T give in to them. I get up, do what I can and I tell God at the end of the day "Thank You for getting me thru this day!" I said most days for a reason. The other days I can't help but give in to my body, BUT at the end of these days I STILL say "Thank You, God for getting me thru this day! I add a little something on these BAD days, ....thank You for supplying me with Your strength to get thru this day!" I know it is ONLY by His grace that I am able to walk, get up, and move without pain. He sanctified me 14 years ago & I will NEVER stop thanking Him for what He has given me!
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Miss Brenda Lee Gertman | June 2, 2013
Thank you...
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Colleen | June 3, 2013
AMEN SISTER! Cathe & Jo
I have had chronic pain for over 17 years (fibromyalgia, connective tissue disease, 2 types of arthritis, I'll stop there :-)
I too thank God for every moment of feeling good and praise Him when I hurt so bad I can hardly stand it. Because I know how lucky I am to walk, talk, hear - what I can, hug, snuggle, etc. I also have a wonderful husband who brings me so much joy. There is too much joy & blessings out there to enjoy. I know that God will bless me in heaven for how I respond to my situation here on Earth. And being with Jesus - with no more pain, sorrows or tears - will be my reward!
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Yvonne | June 4, 2013
I just want to thank you for being a godly woman and having these bible studies. I truly am a believer in Christ. I'm a mother, grandmother, daughter, and sister. I'm very excited to be finally getting involved. God Bless.
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Veronica | June 5, 2013
Thank You so much Cathe for the Wisdom God gives you! I share in my own pain as well. I worked part-time for ten years with chronic pain in my neck and back only to realize our Heavenly Father was working in me.....As we have to suffer the consequences of our sins even though we've been given new life He would always show me that verse in 2 Corinthians 12:1-10 Therefore, in order to keep me from becoming conceited, I was given a thorn in my flesh. Well, after the 10 years He has healed about 90% of that chronic pain I once carried. So I love and can relate to the part of your notes where you wrote:
"the means of becoming someone beautiful in God’s eyes can be painful—so painful we may be tempted to throw in the towel. But God’s plan to make us into the image of His own dear Son is relentless."
As we grow and mature in our walk with Christ everything starts to make better sense : )
I am Thankful and Praise God for everything : )
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Tracy | June 6, 2013
Thank you, thank you, thank you! I too had not read this till today. As I sit here at work and pray for my family (husband, adult son and daughter) I am reminded how He never leaves us nor forsakes us. As we should never give up on backslidden, prodigal family members, we're reminded that we are ALL beautiful in His eyes. We must stay faithful - in His Word, in prayer, in love, etc. Oh and yes, taking care of our bodies is also a God-given responsibility. That is where my faithfulness is weak :-(. You've guilted me into going to the gym after work, if it's raining. Otherwise it's mowing the lawn:-). Thanks again and God Bless!!
Marilisa | June 7, 2013
Amen! I had backslidden for over 15 years and because of my family's prayers I have recently come back to Jesus. Yes, I am that lost sheep the Lord was seeking. Don't give up, continue to pray for your backslidden friends and family! I am amazed at the Lord's mercy, love and grace!
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Marilisa | June 6, 2013
Amen Cathe! Thank you for sharing these thoughts. God knew I needed to hear this. It makes me giggle knowing I'm not the only middle-aged lady having aches and pains. I was just saying to myself this morning, "I can't wait for my new body in heaven!" I turned 49 in February and I have arthritis in both hands, and now I feel sharp pains on my left knee! Last week I pulled a muscle on my groin...probably from biking but I really can't say! Ya, this getting older stuff is frustrating! When I start complaining I thank God for the limbs I do have. Though our outer self is wasting away, our inner self is being renewed day by day!
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Tanya | June 16, 2013
Thank you...that was beautiful.
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Kary | June 18, 2013
I love your insight and that you took the time to share your wisdom. I'm a fitness instructor/trainer and often love working with people like you who comment on their body's aging process. Just as seasons change, so do our physical needs. They often are in need of tender care rather the the latest Insanity/P90X or Crossfit WOD. There are ways to grow gracefully. Don't give up on your physical self, just acknowledge that what you were doing when injured isn't working for you in this season.
Jeannie Johansen | June 25, 2013
How thoughtful and encouraging Kary. I am 64 and really can't believe it...unless I look in the mirror or try to walk too fast after I stand. But get me going and I think I'm 36. OK, maybe 46 :-). The words you used "there are ways to grow gracefully" are so important to me. When I see a woman who has aged well, I admire her so much. That is my prayer.
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Billie | June 19, 2013
Just what I needed to hear. God knew I was searching to hear Him, and He sent me here to your page at the right time.
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Katie | June 22, 2013
This website is a great resource and alternative to other social media sites that might not be as uplifting. Thank you for doing this. I have been reading your new book and it is great. I like reading the stories and insight you have on the things we face in life. I find myself reading it early in the morning and it is very uplifting especially when I feel down from not sleeping well. I also helps me focus on the word of God and not my circumstance at that particular time.
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Debbie Gonzalez | June 23, 2013
Cathe,
First, what a beautiful picture of you next to the ocean!! The ocean and all its noises are so calming for me and has always been a source of relaxation. Thank you for the reminder that we all need to have quiet time and take a "time out" from our regular routines to just be quiet and listen to what the Holy Spirit might need to say to us. I am sorry that you injured yourself, but you took that injury and your sleepless night and turned it in to something positive for yourself and now you are sharing it with us. I will turn 50 in July, and like you, I am doing what I can to care for my body but I will always be young at heart, in attitude and spirit, so bring on the aging process. We will endure!
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Myrna | August 8, 2013
God help me.
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