Jan 9, 2007

Don't Waste Your Affliction

Ian had a busy day of therapy today, and he was finally able to use the standing box- which is the first time that he has stood up in three months. We aren't sure how long he was in it, but any amount of time is great. Ian's nurse today, Bob, said that he fully believes that Ian responds to him, by deliberately squeezing his hands and in other ways. What an encouragement to have nurses who want to see Ian improve and who are excited by his progress.

This week in church we were given the article, "Don't Waste Your Cancer," by John Piper. It's a great article with many insights on affliction. To prarphrase one of his points, you will waste your cancer, or other affliction, if you seek comfort from your medical odds rather than from God. It's tempting to look at the statistics of how many people recover from something like Ian's injuries or how quickly they recover. But we can trust in the name of the Lord our God that He holds Ian in his hands and His will must be done. Many times the aim of afflication is to knock props out from under our hearts so that we rely utterly on God. We don't need to rely on medical statistics because we serve a God who is 100% certain to meet us, to come for us, to comfort us and restore love's purest joys.

Thank you for praying...

-Larissa

4 comments:

Anonymous said...

Larissa,

I am the mother of 5 children ages 9-20. Our daughter being the oldest, the rest are boys. Our older 2 children went to New Attitude and because of that we heard about Ian.

I just want you to know that I pray for Ian often and for you and the families involved.

Thank you for taking the time to let us know how Ian is doing.

Again, you are in our prayers,
Love, Karise Lewin....Denver, Co
Grace Community Church

Anonymous said...

Thanks. That's good.

Alivia's Momma said...

Larissa...thank you so much for the pictures. I love seeing Ian. Each picture gives me a new thing to pray for...that Ian will be bowling again soon...or swinging with Lydia or hanging out with his favorite girl (you).
*Emily H.

Anonymous said...

It is so encouraging to read how strong your relationship with God is... I can see Him working through you and through Ian's family. It is amazing to "hear". Thank you for really encouraging us to seek God's heart! Jen