Imagine being flat on your back with pneumonia, gasping for every breath and unable to lift yourself to cough.
Several years ago quadriplegic Joni Eareckson Tada found herself in these circumstances.
When doctors hooked her up to oxygen, she had an epiphany: For the first time, she realized how she had taken her daily breath for granted.
Since that time, she's made a practice to "breathe in God's presence"—acknowledging his breath-by-breath, moment-by-moment presence in her life.
Joni suggests that no matter how difficult our circumstances, we can "inhale His love" and "exhale gratitude."
So often we think the only miracles are healing ones. But Joni, a quadriplegic who lives in constant pain, is a huge miracle.
She teaches us the true meaning of gratitude and the true meaning of miracles.
She is proof that no matter how difficult the trial, God is true to His promise: “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.” Hebrews 13:5
To read more 1-minute devotions about Joni:
Joni Shares 5 Benefits of Suffering
Divine Crab Bite
Source: A Place of Healing: Wrestling with the Mysteries of Suffering, Pain, and God's Sovereignty, by Joni Eareckson Tada, David C. Cook Publishing, 2010
Check out Joni's ministry here: Joni and Friends.
So thankful for His constant presence! He IS the air I breathe!
ReplyDeleteBlessings, Joan
Thank you for sharing. It sure puts life into perspective not to take things for granted. Also, God has done so much good through the bad that happened to Joni. She has been an inspiration to many.
ReplyDeleteLove that, Gail! I love Joni! I was also looking to link up with you today. Did you change your day? Love, Juana
ReplyDeleteAfter reading this, I know I can do better.
ReplyDeleteHer story of strength and great faith have been such an inspiration to me and so many over the years.
ReplyDeleteA lovely post to start my morning, Gail! Thanks so much. Breathing in Jesus!
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