The Power of Good Judgment
If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.—James 1:5 (ESV)
They will have no fear of bad news; their hearts are steadfast, trusting in the Lord.—PSALM 112:7 [NIV]
“You have an advanced lung disease. It’s incurable,” the pulmonologist told my husband, Ralph, that fateful November morning several years ago. As I tried to absorb the full meaning of his words, I was flooded with anxiety and a host of questions: How much longer did Ralph have to live? How would this affect his quality of life? Would I be able to take care of him? How would we manage financially?
As the doctor patiently answered my questions, I put on a brave face. But inside, I was terrified.
Over the next few days my fears increased, and the doctor’s words replayed in my head over and over again.
One morning while perusing my Bible, I discovered Psalm 112:7. It was then I knew I had a choice—I could continue to “fear this bad news” or I could trust God.
Since then, both Ralph and I have taken refuge in this scripture many times as we continually learn how to navigate the never-ending tests, doctor visits, medications and insurance struggles. And though there have been times when I have fallen into fear, I’ve also learned to trust God in a deeper and more steadfast way.
God, help me not to fall into imagining the worst when I hear bad news. Remind me I can trust you, one day at a time.
If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.—James 1:5 (ESV)
But if we hope for what we do not yet have, we wait for it patiently.—Romans 8:25 (NIV)
“I am leaving you with a gift—peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give. So don’t be troubled or afraid.”—John 14:27 (NLT)