Don't Be Afraid

Anyone who knows me (or sees me walk) realizes I have major back problems. I've actually been diagnosed with six conditions in my back, including scoliosis, spinal stenosis, and severe arthritis, among other conditions. As painful as my back problems are, I count my blessings daily and am thankful I can still "get around" and drive. ~ Recently my doctor sent me to a spinal specialist, who described in detail the spinal surgery I need to have done. The surgery would take twelve hours, I'd be in Intensive Care, need rehab, and complete recovery could take up to twelve months. Needless to say, I left that appointment feeling disheartened, discouraged, and terrified. Now, I'm no stranger to surgeries. I've been through more than a few, and "survived" just fine. But this particular spinal surgery would undoubtedly be the most major of any surgery I've had. However, according to the doctors, if I don't have it, my spine will eventually press against a lung, causing difficulty breathing. So I feel it's something that I must do. ~ The more I thought about the doctor's words, the more I realized I must leave this in the Lord's hands. He will be with me through the surgery and recovery process, I am certain. ~ The next day I was flipping through my Bible to resume my daily reading, and a verse in Mark caught my eye: Be not afraid, only believe. YES!! So simple, but that's exactly what I need to do! I must believe the Lord will see me through whatever the future holds, so there's no need to fear. What a wonderful, comforting thought. Thank You, Lord!!!