In 1981, at the age of 8, I woke up unable to straighten my right arm. A few weeks later I was diagnosed with Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis. I didn't know what that meant at the time, but over the next few years my body became more painful and many of my joints became permanently stuck. By the time I was in middle school I was tired of the pain and tired of being different. I asked God to make it like I was never born. I knew I was loved by family and friends, so I thought this way I could be free without hurting them. I don't know how many nights I prayed this prayer, but eventually I realized that God wasn't going to take me away. I surrendered. I told God that if I had to stay He had to help me. Finally God answered...

God told me I was here on purpose and for a purpose, and that I already had everything I needed to make it.

You are also here on purpose and for a purpose, and God has already given you everything you need to make it.

Psalms4Today