Blessed be the name of the Lord

Yesterday morning I received a book in the post sent to me by my mum. Entitled "North of Shadowlands," it is a collection of blogs written by Belfast preacher Derek Bingham during his recent battle with Leukemia.

When diagnosed he was given 2 days to live, and if put on Chemo, was given a 5% chance of survival.

I read it in a day.

So much pain and suffering, and yet, if we will 'lift up our eyes' we will discover that our help really does come from the Lord.

I was once again blown away by the story of English poet and Hymn writer William Cowper, who suffered many bouts of deep depression, even once attempting suicide by trying to drive knitting needles into his heart!

When aware that he was sinking into another season of deep despair, Cowper hurried home and wrote the following words, which I dont apologise for quoting in full...

God moves in a mysterious way His wonders to perform; He plants His footsteps in the sea And rides upon the storm.

Deep in unfathomable mines Of never failing skill He treasures up His bright designs And works His sovereign will.

Ye fearful saints, fresh courage take; The clouds ye so much dread Are big with mercy and shall break In blessings on your head.

Judge not the Lord by feeble sense, But trust Him for His grace; Behind a frowning providence He hides a smiling face.

His purposes will ripen fast, Unfolding every hour; The bud may have a bitter taste, But sweet will be the flower.

Blind unbelief is sure to err And scan His work in vain; God is His own interpreter, And He will make it plain.

John Newton, who knew Cowper well, said that he never knew a man more in the Grace and Favour of God, who was made to suffer so much despair.

This morning my thoughts have continued along this path. Listening to singer/song writer Steve Curtis Chapman sing "Just have to wait," from his new album "Beauty Will Rise," as he reflects on the tragic death of his 5 year old daughter in May 2008.

Why Lord?!

Job 1 verse 21 "Naked I came from my mother's womb, and naked I will depart.The LORD gave and the LORD has taken away; may the name of the LORD be praised."

Lord, I don't understand, but Blessed be your name. I want to praise you in the light, but help me praise you in the dark too...