Allow God to Fight Your Battles

Many years ago, as a young woman married fewer than two years, I began to have medical issues that could not be ignored.

I sought the medical attention that I needed and even got a second opinion. It was determined that the only solution to my problem was abdominal surgery. This news shook me to the very core of my being. I had never had any medical issues greater than the common cold. Although my husband was there, I felt he did not understand the extent of my anxiety and pain. I finally reached out to my best friend and coworker, who provided the support that helped me get through the crisis.

The surgery went well, and the recovery was uneventful.

I gave praise and thanks to God for the successful outcome, knowing what the possibilities could have been. I wish that this was the end of the story, but the worst was yet to come. One of the more mature women of the church, who should have been mentoring the younger women, decided to expound on my medical status without consulting me. She told others that I had had a hysterectomy and would never be able to have a child. That rumor spread like wildfire. My initial reaction was anger.

I felt a need to refute that lie, but the Holy Spirit spoke to me and reminded me of how the Savior was misrepresented and even put to death.

I was immediately humbled, strengthened, and encouraged as I reflected on the path that Christ had trodden, which led to His death on the cross.

I felt a sense of relief as the multiple negative thoughts that had flooded my mind were replaced with thoughts of what Christ had endured.

The Lord, in His mercy, removed the hurt and anger and filled my heart with joy, peace, and love. Two years later, I gave birth to an eight-pound, thirteen-ounce healthy baby boy! Indeed, the Lord will fight your battles if you trust Him.

“Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths” (Proverbs 3:5, 6, KJV).

Mary Head Brooks