I've Been There

Yesterday I found out that my mother has skin cancer. Today I called her and asked if it would be okay if our family came to the farm and had a service of healing prayer. She said "I would like that". So we're heading up on Tuesday night.

Right now, I am praying that I will once again see God's blessings in the midst of yet another struggle in life. In recent years I have discovered this diamond in life. Learning that when you're hurting or being challenged God is ever more present and is blessing you in ways you can't even see.

After my son's struggle with cancer in the late 90's I wrote and produced two devotional CD's titled I'VE BEEN THERE - Words of Hope and Promise. I offer the words of the theme song I wrote to you and pray that it brings you peace in the midst of any struggle you may have now and in the future.

Peace be with you!

IM4HOPE

I'VE BEEN THERE

Copyright 2000

Have you ever had times when no strength you could find,

And the pressures of life weighed you down?

I have felt that same way, and all I can say,

There is hope if you'll only hang on.

Have you ever felt fear, or lost someone dear?

Are you lonely and full of despair?

Many know how you feel. For them it's been real.

I can say that I know. I've been there.

But there's one who knows best than all of the rest,

A world full of pain He can see.

Through all that you are facing may you feel His arms embracing.

He forgives and sets free.

So no matter where you've been, if you're life is full of sin,

When you feel there's no reason to be.

Turn to God and say a prayer. I promise He'll be there.

This I know, 'cause He's been there for me.'

Yes I know, 'cause He's been there for me'.

Words of Hope and Promise

Grace and peace to you!

This is my first post on my new blog. My children have been encouraging me to start one. I'm 53, so I'm slow to this stuff.

I thought a lot about why I would even have a blog and I guess I want to do what I can to encourage people, especially those who may be feeling like they are treading water and about to go under. My desire is to lift your spirit with words of affirmation and validation.

I am a follower of Jesus Christ and my hope comes from his saving grace.

I dedicate this blog to my wife Karen, my children, Joni, Brian and Marcus, my son-in-law Derek and daughter-in-law Kelli and my precious grand-daughter Miya.

They are my daily inspiration and I am grateful for the gifts they are in my life.

To you who may be reading my first blog, I start by saying this to you.....

I pray that you will be blessed with good, health, happiness and an abundance of HOPE.

Feeling Blessed!

IM4HOPE