It Is Well

(Dedicated to Beatrice Kuscher, Matt Kidd, Andrea Taylor and Patricia Omoqui...)

In the past few weeks, I have been talking to friends from all parts of the world. Many are God's children going through the wine presses. I want you to know, It Is Well.

Sometimes, in my zeal for purpose, I don't hear the shallow breathing of my fellows. I don't see the inertia in their circumstances and I don't feel the blisters upon the soles of their feet. All saying, "I am in pain". We live for today, tomorrow will contend for itself.

Goliath was the champion of the Philistine cities with 5 lords. Each lord represents an affliction that Israel experienced in their day. Even in our time the nature of the world continues to bring all manner of afflictions our way.

We are pressed from each side, sunken into strongholds by Ashdod, battered by the wine press from Gath, forced to wander as the Ekronites and the prideful remnants in Gaza are still hurling fiery darts into our circumstances.

Our pain is right there by our sides; the objects of our afflictions are those right within our borders, even our beloved. The temple is no more a sanctuary nor is our walled gates insulation from tempests of cancer.

But in all of these things we are more than conquerors. Suffering purifies and brings forth grace. It makes testimony more sure and more pleasant. God's got His eyes on you and His hands are over you.

Don't give up, don't give in - the eyes of destiny are over your life and your joy is not given through the hands of men but through the prism of faith. You will smile and I will behold your laughter as of one who looks with disdain over the fate of the adversary.

I prophecy - it is well with your soul.

GHA