My testimony: Yea though I walk through the valley…
Of course most believers declare the above Psalm 23 as a beloved scripture, close to their hearts and so do I. My challenge began way back in 1984 when I gave birth to my first baby; a beautiful baby boy. I was afflicted with a kidney inflammation called Pyelonephritis.
Many people do not survive this condition but it was through the immeasurable grace of God and the enduring trust of my parents who prayed earnestly for me, that I survived. Unfortunately, my baby passed away. It was truly a heartbreaking time for my husband and myself and our families.
Through all this, God spared me and I recovered. I enjoyed good health for my next baby boy who was born a year later. My youngest son was born three years later. I did not have any kidney related problems for 33 years. Praise God!
When I was diagnosed as diabetic at the young age of 28, our family doctor sat me down and explained the complications that could come later. He also advised me on how I should take care of myself. I experienced relatively good health for 25 years, despite this condition. I was able to manage my household duties and take care of my family. I always prayed for an extra measure of grace from the Lord, which He granted me. Hallelujah to our Lord Jesus Christ.
There were many instances where God had been with us through the valley. My husband, two sons and I have constantly witnessed God’s grace and mercy as we journeyed with our Lord.
For me personally, from the season of illness and near death, the Lord has been so faithful. I had to leave university for a year. But through God’s grace and the great support structure of my husband, parents, siblings and extended family, I graduated in 1987. I then went on to pursue a career as a teacher, which was such a great experience. Thank you, Lord!
Life can throw us many curve balls. When we feel ourselves sliding down that valley, we need to reach out for a helping hand. Above all, my story proves that I made it through. All this would not have been possible without God’s grace – without His presence in the valley! I drew so much comfort from this verse: “Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.” Psalms 23:4 NIV.
There are so many other instances where God came through for me, like He did for so many people, all through the ages. I find this verse very uplifting: “Many, Lord my God, are the wonders you have done, the things you planned for us. None can compare with you; were I to speak and tell of your deeds, they would be too many to declare.” Psalms 40:5 NIV. God has been so good to me and He can do marvellous things for you when you put your hope, faith and confidence in Him.
As you read my story, I pray this verse over you: “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” Romans 15:13 NIV.
‘We are blessed to be a blessing!’
Martha S
Reference:
https://biblehub.com/niv/psalms/23.htm
Courtesy – Unsplash Image
I am a nature-loving, self-motivated person blessed with a passion for helping people. I love reading, writing and sharing real life experiences. I find great joy in fulfilling my potential.
Linda Pearl Ramnath
NAB
BSB 082731
Account Number 549135623
One Response to Stories of Hope: Yea though I walk through the valley…