Hi Karen,
Your post reminds me of Roman 8:28-29.  "All things work together for good, for them that love the Lord..."  It has taken me a long time, but I have seen trials and sucky situations as opportunities to try to glorify the Lord.  Because, I have totally surrendered my will and my life to Him in rehab two and a half years ago, I have such peace at times of turmoil.

Hugs,
Trish

"But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us."  The author refers to several scriptures where "But God" is used to show us the brighter side of a down situation. Such as when someone else tries to use a situation for evil "But God" can and does use it for His good. There is nothing that man or satan can do to us that "But God" can't turn around for His glory. So when things look down remember to ask God to use this situation for His good and glory.

God Bless!
Karen

After being house bound for over two months, during which I was in the hospital for two weeks, and had the most excruciating pain in my leg, and surgery to drain a horrific hematoma, I was able to go to church and share God's goodness throughout it all.  One woman was so moved by what I shared with her, she sent me a note telling me that my story encouraged her a great deal.  I could have easily whined and complained during it all, but I had God's perfect peace, and He strengthened me throughout the entire period.  I'm always trying to glorify God in everything I do.

Hugs,
Trish

thanks for everyone's feedback - I appreciate it!   I am trusting God.

Serving others is at the heart of the AA program.  AA was founded when Bill Wilson first went to the bedside of Dr. Bob.  He knew that he could not stay sober unless he was helping someone else get sober.  The 12th Step of AA says, "Having had a spiritual awakening as a result of these steps we tried to carry the message to other alcoholics, and practice these principles in all our affairs."  We carry the message in so many different ways.  

I am blessed to be in a church that encourages serving others.  When I was sick with the injured leg back in January, I was amazed at how many people brought me meals.  Then, the Monday after my surgery, a friend packed up all of my Christmas decorations, including my tree.  Another friend came and swept and mopped my living room and kitchen floors.  I try to help meet those kinds of needs when the opportunity arises.

I'm also enjoying my volunteer work.  It's at a Recovery Community Center near here.  There, we provide help to alcoholics and addicts in early recovery, with employment workshops, recovery planning and a slew of other services based on a person's particular situation and needs.

Hugs,
Trish