~tests and trials~

Hi everyone;
I've been on the ill side for a few days.  Wednesday I went to the Dr. they got me scheduled in quickly, even in quick from the waiting room, AND the PA (physicans assistant) came in quick... haha, well, my visit with the dr was 'to quick' too.... way to quick... I felt rushed in and out... oh well, just give me the antibiotics and I'm good to go... right?? Unfortunately, the prescription never made it to my pharmacy that day. (couldnt return to work until at least 24 hours on meds., great gotta miss another day of work) Thursday morning I called the pharmacy, nope not there yet, so I began an all day long trial dealing with the doctors office and mis-communication down to nit-wit personalities of people on the phone... Guess what else, Thursday was my birthday.. yep, happy birthday Kim...  I had mixed emotions about this; being so sick, feeling frustrated with the Doctors office. By early after-noon I just wanted to 'give up' take the cough syrup and forget the antibiotics. I thought of Jesus, He had a birthday coming up too~ I thought of Him on the cross too~ (I just rewatched 'the passion of the Christ') WOW, and I am cranky over this? Jesus never said a harsh word out of 'self pride or justification'. 
I also received the following daily devotional just prior to this experience. It's copied (in part) from Mike (Papi) from Casa on the Rock in Guatemala, an Orphanage I've been following for over 10 yrs. Here is what he says:

It is all about our thoughts & daily actions.

First, you need to realize that realizing why we have trials is half the battle. It is never because God wants to harm us. He wants to make us strong. He desires that we look to and only trust in Him. It is believing that “this too will pass” and “all things work together for the good”.

Second, it is necessary that perseverance is the key. Just do not QUIT. Keep walking through your problem. THROUGH is the word! Do not stop in the midst of the flames.

THIRD, Realize that God will always follow the trials with blessings if you are still standing in the end. Dottie and I have learned that HAPPINESS always follows SADNESS!

Forth, realize that your lifestyle will be one that only God can provide. It is caused ABUNDANT LIVING.

Fifth, and very important is that testing is similar to building a bridge. Years ago I learned that God NEVER puts a bridge over the river until you STEP ON the water.

Only by COMPLETING your final exam will you pass to the next level.

During the night last night, I realized that yesterday had been a test. I would say I failed.  I felt frustrated, bitter and angry that "I" had to deal with the incompetence of a Doctors office. They get paid big bucks to be reliable... right???? maybe so~ but they are all human too. Big bucks does not change that.  However, it did dawn on me that perhaps some light will be shed on the PA (physicans assistant) that caused the whole fiasco.  I am not aware of the purpose other than perhaps teaching me PATIENCE and kindness when it is difficult to do so. 

I Thank my God for His patience and kindness toward me and His Mercy and Grace too. (What a great example of these virtues He gave us) 

To finish yesterdays story, at 5:30 pm a gal called from the Dr's office, and after clarifying some more details for her, she took my prescription request for a Z-pak ($15.50) (instead of an expensive antibiotic $186.00 the PA prescribed) to my regular Dr. and within 5 minutes, she corrected the entire days frustration! I had my medication at home and taken within 30 minutes of her phone call.  WHEW~ what a relief! 

Thank you ALL for your prayers, love and support.

In His grace,
Kim