. . . my feet came close to stumbling; my steps had almost slipped . . . when I pondered to understand {pain, suffering} it was troublesome in my sight. Until I came into the sanctuary {presence} of God . . . {and realized} nevertheless I am continually with God. God has taken hold of my right hand. With God’s counsel, God will guide me, and afterward will receive me to glory. Whom have I in heaven but you, oh God? And besides you, I desire nothing else on earth. My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever . . . . Psalm 73

Another round of pain stemming from deterioration of vertebrae in my neck. Another trip to the doctor. Another MRI. Another diagnosis. Another round of treatment. Another bump in the road.

Another choice . . . self pity, loss of energy and drive, despair.

Or, time in God’s Word. Scriptures that speak truth of the human struggle. Reminders of the One whom my heart loves and so desperately wants to serve. Words of praise, although seemingly foreign to where I am right now, yet so perfect for where I need to be . . . nestled in God’s presence.

Nevertheless, regardless of my state of joy or sorrow, health or pain, God is with me . . . as for me, the nearness of God is my good; I have made the Lord God my refuge, that I may tell of all God’s works.