“It’s only a surface cavity,” My dentist explained. “You may not need novocaine at all. I’ll start drilling and if you feel any pain raise your hand.”
I’m ashamed to say I about took his head off!
Novocaine is a gift from God to help us through repairing a decaying tooth.
I just realized something—I am numb. There hasn’t been a novocaine shot, but this numbness is also a gift from God.
Tom and I have experienced so many challenges the last 5 years. Circumstances trying our endurance like a marathon to a 1st grader. The spirit is willing but the flesh is weak.
Everything we have ever said about marriage and leaning into each other during hard times has been tested.
We are numb.
The definition of numb is unable to think, feel, or react normally because of something that shocks or upsets you
On the surface you might think we are in a bad place. But we’re not. We realize God places his numbing agents on us as a mercy. He knows what we are made of. He knows our limits. Our circumstances have stretched us beyond what Mel Gibson endured at the end of Bravehart, at least it seems that way—that statement just reveals my own aversion to pain.
God is like my dentist, nudging me to try a little more to see what I’m able to endure.
We can see that the things that caused our heart to sink ten years ago now seem trivial in comparison to our current challenges.
If we look back we see the faithfulness of God walking with us, sometimes carrying us through dark valleys. The Bible says He is near to the broken-hearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. He has grown us and made us stronger.
I am thankful we are walking this road together. It may be painful but at least the burden is shared. This is part of what we promised on our wedding day-“for worse and in sickness”.
What a mercy. I’m raising my hand asking for God’s numbing grace to fix what is broken either in my circumstances or in my heart. He knows what we need before we ask.
What Mercy!
In what ways is your marriage being stretched? Ask God to help—He is rich in mercy.
The Romantic Vineyard 
Tom & Debi, we’re so sorry for all the super hard things you’re walking through during this time. Thank you for being vulnerable and transparent with us during this time. Our hearts hurt for you guys and your family and know we will be lifting you guys up in prayer every time God brings you to our minds. We are on the launch team for Gary Thomas’s new book, “Making Your Marriage a Fortress”. It seems so many marriages are going through such hard stuff. We’re thankful to know your marriage is strong and your Lord and Savior is even stronger. We know God will get you to the other side but we can only imagine the heartache of all you’re going through. May God continue to grant you mercy and strength during this time. HE is our anchor in the storms of life. Only, “Because He Lives, I Can Face Tomorrow.” He’s already in all our tomorrows and HIS grace is sufficient for His strength is made perfect in our weakness. Sending hugs, Randy & Vickie
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So grateful for your prayers and encouragement.
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Tears are in my eyes as I read your post. Sending hugs and big prayers heavenward on your behalf. BUT GOD!
Vickie
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Thank you Vickie. But God! Those are the two words that changes everything!
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His mercies are sustaining.
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Yes! We’ve proven it o’er and o’er!
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There are those in whom perfection
seems part and parcel of each day,
a mirroring of God’s reflection,
and for these we must surely pray
for they give from their stretched-thin hearts
more than what they can endure
to help the rest of us play parts
that with their help stay bright and sure.
But sometimes our friends die inside,
day on day, and we don’t know
what they have to put aside
so that their work may live and grow
in service that demands a price
of these good souls’ sacrifice.
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You’ve said it well, as usual Andrew. Thank you for your example on how to persevere.
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Thanks for sharing all the different parts and seasons with us, and the lessons you’re learning along the way. Your difficulties are not wasted when they are used by God to shape your lives and draw you near to Him. And those benefits are multiplied as you humbly share your story with us. Thank You!!
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Thanks for your encouragement Markus. And thank you for caring!
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How heartbreaking to read your post! I have gleaned so much wisdom from reading your posts for many years and so I feel like I know you. Thank you for being “real”. Even when we are trusting and relying on God, we still experience overwhelming heartache and pain. But what a testimony to see that you continue to trust Him through it all. I love the words in Psalm 119:76-May Your unfailing love be my comfort. That is my prayer for you.
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Lisa,
Thank you for reaching out and sharing this Scripture with us. And mostly for your prayers. It is a hard season, but God! He sustains us day by day.
May God bless your marriage as you have blessed us today
Debi
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