Many years ago, when I first started hearing audible voices, I was in touch with a dear friend from my teenage days. She gave me the following good, sound advice:

This is hard advice to follow, but it helps me very much: Keep an attitude of thanksgiving and praise to God even at the worst of times. He has promised never to leave you or forsake you, and He is the best promise keeper there is! Keep your eyes on Him, and He will lift up your spirits and give you peace. That's the best situation for healing to take place. And that's what we're praying for.

Psalm 113:3 – From dawn until sunset the name of the Lord deserves to be praised. (CEV)

Deuteronomy 31:8 – The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged. (NIV)

I know that this is sound advice, but often in the daily grind of being spiritually attacked, I must admit that I have not always followed this advice. Recently, I have been going through some files, and I came across this treasure from my friend. It so captivated me that I just have to share it. I am so thankful for the love and caring of this precious friend over many years. Let us always be open to the good advice of a loving friend.

This same friend has gone through many trials of her own and is still facing trials as she nears the end of her life here on earth in long-term residential care. Yet, I know that, even today, in spite of all adversity, she has that same attitude of thanksgiving and praise. She always has a smile on her face and a word of thanks for anyone who does anything for her.

If it is true that as we grow older, our negative character traits intensify and our good qualities get better, then while we are younger, we need to take the advice of my elderly friend and her mentor, the apostle Paul:

1 Thessalonians 5:18 – Give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus. (NIV)

Prayer: Dear Father, You have promised us that You will never leave us nor forsake us, and You are the best promise keeper there is. Thank You for the wisdom of our elderly friends and for Your never-ending love. We know that You will hold their hands and ours through the rest of our journeys. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

Forward this devotional     Share on Facebook

About the author:

June Heale <jinnybug@shaw.ca>
Parksville, British Columbia, Canada
Send your feedback to the author