May 3 Rooted in Faith- Growing Stronger

 Theme: Faith Amidst Sickness

Nicola Small-Edgar 
George Town SDA Church

 August 4, 2021, started as a wonderful day. I was in the church hall, preparing the children for the Investiture Service. While there, I felt a slight pain in my belly, but I brushed it off. However, upon reaching home, the pain worsened. I debated whether to go to the hospital, and after some time, I finally decided to go.

                                                                                  

After undergoing an X-ray and receiving some medication, I returned home, hoping for relief. But within a few days, the pain became unbearable, and I had no choice but to return to the hospital. 

On August 6, just before sunset, I found myself back in the emergency room.

 By then, the pain was so severe that I could barely stand. When I finally entered triage, the nurse took one look at me, examined me, and placed me in Bed 7—God’s perfect number. However, at the time, it didn't seem that way to me.

James 1:12 (NIV) reminds us: "Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him."

After being there for some time, I was taken for an ultrasound and a CT scan. Then, at 12:08 a.m., I received the worst news of my life/the hardest pill I had to swallow. The doctor said, “Mrs. Edgar, you have stage 4 cancer with metastasis and ascites.” Mercy! I opened my mouth to speak, but no words came out. For a moment, it seemed as if time stood still. I was crying, but there were no tears. God Mercy kept me so I wouldn't let go!! Yea, thou I walk through the valley of the shadow of death. I will fear no evil, for Thou art with me. Thy rod and thy staff comfort me.

By the break of day, the message was sent out like wildfire: "Garnicia’s mom is sick, she has cancer." Immediately, the Seventh Day Adventist churches across the islands went into Prayer and Fasting. People from near and far were interceding on my behalf. We prayed and God delivered!

How do we worship amid Trials?

Worshipping in the midst of trials is a profound act of faith and surrender. It is about lifting our eyes to God, even when circumstances try to pull us down. In these moments, worship becomes a declaration of trust—a way of saying, "Lord, I believe You are greater than this storm."

Job’s story is a perfect example of unwavering faith:

"Then Job arose, tore his robe, shaved his head, and fell to the ground and worshiped. And he said, 'Naked I came from my mother’s womb, and naked shall I return. The Lord gave, and the Lord has taken away; blessed be the name of the Lord.' In all this, Job did not sin nor charge God with wrongdoing." - Job 1:20-22

No matter what we go through, God remains faithful. He calls us to worship, not because of our circumstances, but despite them. When trials come, let us lift our voices in praise, knowing that God is always working for our good.

A Prayer for Strength in Trials

Heavenly Father, we come before You with hearts full of faith and surrender. Lord, when the storms of life rage, help us to trust You completely. Teach us to worship in the midst of trials, just as Job did, knowing that You are still in control. For those facing sickness, pain, or uncertainty, we ask for Your healing and peace. Strengthen our faith, Lord, and remind us that You are the God who delivers. May our trials refine us and draw us closer to You.

Thank you, Father, for your unfailing love and mercy. We praise You, not just for what You do, but for who You are. May our lives be a Testament to your goodness and faithfulness.

In Jesus' mighty name, I pray. Amen.

Thank you for being a part of the Daughters Arise Ministry. Email for bookings @kingsdaughters035@gmail.com.