What are you thankful for? Probably trials are not the first thing that would come to mind when someone asks you this question. James 1 :2-4 tells us to, “Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.” Most of us probably don’t jump and shout for joy when we go through hard times.
Afterwards though, sometimes we can see the fruit of those trials. Our family has certainly been through our fair share of trials this year with the vehicle accident, and then with Gwen’s water breaking so early, and baby Timothy being born prematurely. We have been separated from our children for more than 3 months this year. Through it all the Lord has preserved our lives, protected us, and provided for our needs! We are confident that He will never leave us or forsake us! We have had many opportunities to share about God’s goodness, protection, and provision through these trials. While we would never have chosen for any of these things to happen, we give thanks for how we have grown in our faith and for the opportunity to give glory to the Lord! If even one person chooses to call on the name of the Lord because of our story, then it has all been worth it! To God be the glory!
Timothy Miracle Stone is growing like a champion! he has been gaining between 1 and 2 ounces a day for quite a while now. Everyone wants to know when he will be able to come home. He needs to master several skills before he can come home. He has already accomplished the first 2, he can breathe room air without supplemental oxygen, and he can maintain his body temperature with clothing and blankets and doesn’t need an incubator anymore. The final skill he must master before coming home is how to suck, swallow, and breathe so he can eat on his own. Most premature babies can come home from the hospital around their original due date. Timothy’s due date was December 17, so he will be home for Christmas if not sooner.
Thank you for praying for us!!! Prayer is the most powerful thing we can do!!! I am sure that Timothy is doing so well because people are praying for him! I am also sure that David and I and our other children are doing well because the family of God is lifting us before the throne!!!
Timothy is so cute!