Prayers for Joy

Joy is less than two weeks away from undergoing some pretty tough physical trials. Our prayer for her is that "the joy of the Lord will be her strength". Her first surgery has been scheduled. It is daunting. We love this girl so much, and we wish we didn't have to watch her suffer. Yet, God uses all things in our lives to draw us near to Him and to accomplish His purposes in our lives. We pray that our sovereign heavenly Father will build in us all a deep compassion and mercy for others because of what we will face. I fear that all of this will change Joy. Why do I fear? Didn't God plan all of this from the beginning of time? Hasn't He always proven Himself to be good, kind, loving, and trustworthy? He holds Joy's life in His hands. He loves her even more than we do. Will this all change her? Probably. But for the better. Yes, her physical body will be better. However, prayerfully this change will cause her heart to be molded more and more into the image of Christ. I pray that God will use this to draw her to Himself and to eventually break her heart for what breaks His. I pray that for myself. Please, God, use it for your glory! Please use Joy's life to bring honor to your name!