This Side of Heaven

“We know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to his purpose.” Romans 8:28 (NASB) On this side of heaven, we may never understand how all things can work together for good for God’s children. If we trust God, He will turn all these into opportunities for spiritual growth. My daughter and I both had dreams of a very dark storm coming our way. I believe God was preparing me for what was coming. My husband had been sick for a few weeks and had lost 27 pounds. He was admitted to the hospital with pneumonia and COVID-19. Since there were restrictions, it meant that none of us could be with him. Every day I phoned him to read the Bible and pray. I felt the dark cloud hovering over our home, and I couldn’t eat. When I didn’t have the appetite to eat, I would force myself. Without warning he was transferred to Saskatoon. None of us were allowed to go with him. He had to go alone in the ambulance. This would be the last time that I saw my loving husband, as a few days later he passed away. Yes, I was shocked and devastated. I couldn’t cry. I just felt numb. One moment I was happy he wasn’t suffering anymore, the next moment I was angry at the medical people. All of a sudden, I felt God’s peace like I never felt before. He was telling me, “I am here, and you will see him again soon.” I am thankful for my Heavenly Father and the Word of God. Yes, I have times when I cry and grieve, but I know that my husband would not want me to stay in my closet and waste away. He would say, “Liz, go out there and tell them about our Great Savior Jesus.” I am blessed as I go out and minister for Jesus. – Liz Genaille   Council Fire is a collaboration with Intertribal Life Ministries and Native Evangelical Fellowship of Canada. The Council Fire Daily Devotional Book Set is available on the Intertribal Life Ministries website. Learn more about Council Fire at councilfire365.org