Hebrews 4:15-16 AMP
“For we do not have a High Priest who is unable to sympathize and understand our weaknesses and temptations, but One who has been tempted [knowing exactly how it feels to be human] in every respect as we are, yet without [committing any] sin. Therefore let us [with privilege] approach the throne of grace [that is, the throne of God’s gracious favor] with confidence and without fear, so that we may receive mercy [for our failures] and find [His amazing] grace to help in time of need [an appropriate blessing, coming just at the right moment].”
Ever since I was in high school I have felt the calling of the Lord heavy on my life. The Lord strengthened me with verses like Joshua 1:9 “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous! Do not be terrified or dismayed (intimidated), for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” He sent me out on mission trips and I was able to see and be a part of great works that strengthened my faith. This last September, I experienced another life-changing experience in my life that built my testimony.
It all started with getting married and dedicating my life not only to the Lord but also, to my husband, Dustin, and what the Lord wanted for our lives, as one body. Unfortunately, a time that was meant for joyous celebration and deep union was traded for intimate sorrow. During the second day of our honeymoon we had to return home and I was hospitalized for a week for mental health reasons.
My testimony since I was 18 has somewhat reflected that of Paul’s. I have a thorn in my flesh that keeps me humble and dependent on God. In college, I was diagnosed with a chronic mental health illness. With time and the help of God, I have learned to find strength in my weakness and sufficiency in His grace.
When I got out of the hospital, God started to emphasize the book of Isaiah in my life. It started with Isaiah 43 and God revealed to me that he was refining me through fire and filling my broken cracks with his gracious gold. He mended me daily with love from others and scripture. Unfortunately, the same week I was released from the hospital I was also faced with the dilemma of possibly not having a job to return to. I decided to go on a prayer walk and upon returning, looked at what jobs were available and updated my resume. I saw a job posting as a Wound Care RN at McKenzie Willamette Hospital. Two years ago, I was a Wound Care RN at a long term care facility and I had always dreamed of this position that was now available. In faith, I applied and began seeking the Lord daily for wisdom, guidance, and strength.
I was able to return to work as a dialysis RN, but every day I was off work, I would fast from TV and instead seek quiet time with the Lord whether it was meditating on scripture or listening to sermons. The Lord seemed to speak to me in resonating ways each day. He had Rhema words for me.
Before this season, my love for scripture was dying like embers on a fire. Now scripture is like a dancing flame spreading like a forest fire, not only in my life but in the lives of those around me as God has placed in me a passion to share his words.
The Lord answered my prayer and I was offered the job at the Wound Care Clinic. I have worked there for a little over a month now and I am loving it. The Lord has granted me a job that I am good at and enjoy, with great hours. So, what started out as a very sorrowful and unexpected trip to the hospital ended up in a rewarding surprise. The Lord truly works in mysterious ways.
About the Author
Mollie is recently married to her wonderful husband Dustin. She is a Wound Care RN at McKenzie Willamette Hospital. She enjoys being creative, getting outdoors and spending time with friends and family.