A Simple Answer

I paced the hallway outside my mother’s hospital room. There were so many questions. Decisions to be made. Doctors said one thing. Family said another. But I was the caregiver, the one responsible.

Weeks passed and she cycled better and worse. I prayed for wisdom, but fear had me locked in a vise. How could I hear God’s still, small voice over everyone’s chatter in my head?

I’d pack my lunch and spend hours at the hospital. We’d watch television and talk if Mom wanted to, but mostly just spend time together.

I spied a doctor I knew from another wing. Like sunshine in the midst of a storm, it was odd he was there. We’d had many discussions in the past, so I gave him a brief history of events and revealed my unrest.

He said, “When you have a strong belief system, answers are easy.” Then he patted my arm and strode away.

There was truth in that simple wisdom.

I’d let myself be swayed, forgotten my rudder—my belief system.

God is not the author of confusion. He’s given me a sound mind and a loving heart. And today, he sent a messenger to remind me. The Lord’s peace washed through me. The mental chatter had stilled. Fear was gone. Clarity prevailed.