You've probably noticed that there's been a bit of sickness in our family over the last couple of weeks. Yesterday Rebecca finally succumbed and I think I might be next. I hate that cycle of sickness that you get into when you have young kids who inevitably pass things on to each other. But I always find that at times like these I learn a thing or two. Here's what I've learned (or been reminded of) this week:
* There are no viruses in Australia at the moment that cause fatal bleeding from the gums and nose.
* I always need to depend on God to get through my days. When the kids are sick I'm more conscious of my weakness. This week, as I've woken up and prayed about my day, I've been a little less confident in my own strength and a lot more willing to beg for his help to make it through!
* I really love my kids and it makes me miserable to see them miserable. They are such a blessing.
* Having kids that are sick provides me with a wonderful opportunity to make happy memories!
* Comforting and caring for my children is an important part of my role as their mum. When they are particularly dependent on me (like this week), it helps me refocus my priorities. With all the extra hours cuddling sick kids on the lounge, the house looks like a bit of a mess, and lots of other areas have probably suffered (like blogging) - and that's okay!
* I am a very selfish person - especially at 2am in the morning.
* Despite the fact that I like to plan everything, I am not control of my plans. I actually said "Lord Willing" earlier in the week when making plans (much to my friend's amusement)!
* We have been blessed with very healthy kids up to this point - something I should be thanking God for more.
As much as I've learned and been reminded of, I'm still looking forward to us all being well again soon (Lord willing!).
* Photo is of the kids a few weeks ago - back in the pre-flu days!!
6 comments:
The 2 am part...that's me too. What a great attitude you are having by being grateful and it's never bad to become more desperate for God.
Nic, there's a wonderful, wonderful chapter in Edith Shaeffer's What is a family?, from the days when serious illnesses were much more common, about turning those times into a blessing. You might like to chat about it on your blog.
I'm always encouraged by your blog Nicole. (maybe there is something comforting in hearing when God teaches his children truths along the same lines that you've experienced personally)
Here is a Spurgeon quote I read not long ago: "...is (health) set before us as if it were the great thing to be desired above all things...I venture to say that the greatest earthly blessing that God can give to any of us is health, with the exception of sickness. Sickness has frequently been of more use to the saints of God than health has."
I would never pray to be sick (or for anyone else to get sick) but I have learned to anticipate when I know something *big* is happening in my life (or a friend's life) because a Father is doing his children good.
Hi Nicole, thanks for this article. I found it very helpful - it resonated with me! I have linked to it from my blog and hope that's OK!
Jean, I am reading her book called 'Hidden Art' at the moment! I've also quoted from her book 'What is a family' during my hospitality series, but haven't read that particular chapter. I'll add it to my list of things to read!!
And Louisa, of course I don't mind if you link to me!!
Great blog, thanks. Good to read the links to the older ones too. There is nothing like children (except perhaps husbands), especially sick ones, to teach you about your selfishness, is there?!
Bec
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