God's Glory Church

“I will not leave you, nor will I depart from you!” — Hebrews 13:5

Thousands of people prayed for Pastor Ed Dobson when he was diagnosed with amyotrophic sclerosis in 2000. Many believed that when they prayed in faith for healing, God would answer immediately. After 12 years of battling a disease that had caused Ed’s muscles to gradually atrophy (and three years before his death), someone asked him why he thought God still hadn’t healed him. “I am not concerned with this issue,” he answered. His wife, Lorna, added: “If you’re only looking for answers, you can’t really live.”

Do you feel the reverence for God in Ed and Lorna’s words? They knew that God’s wisdom was greater than their own. Still, Ed admitted, “I find it almost impossible not to worry about tomorrow.” He understood that the disease would lead to even greater disability, and he did not know what new problem the next day might bring.

To focus on the present, Ed posted a scripture in his car, on his bathroom mirror and next to his bed: “[God] said, ‘I will never leave you nor forsake you!’ That is why we boldly say: “The Lord is my helper, and I will not be afraid of anyone”” (Heb. 13:5-6). Whenever Ed began to worry, he repeated these words.

No one knows what tomorrow will bring. Perhaps Ed’s practice can help us turn our anxieties into opportunities for trust.

What Bible verses help you focus on today and not worry about tomorrow? Where can you place them to help your faith grow?

Heavenly Father, help me to remember that You are God and I am human. Please teach me to trust You.

By Ann Sitas