Diagnosis: BLESSED!

I “met” a precious sister-in-Christ recently, via phone. She lives thousands of miles away from me. But the Lord is the best networker on the planet… right?  ?

She’s starting her Residency. The next milestone in fulfilling her dream of practicing medicine as a Christ-honoring physician, under the ultimate supervision of The Great Physician.

She has witnessed abject poverty firsthand. Experienced its needs and anguish. And she has been captivated by stories of beautiful fighters who are finding Hope and spreading Courage, even in the midst of horrific tragedies.

In applying for Residency, she submitted the required Personal Statement. Not only is it beautifully written and a compelling testimony of how her life experiences have led her to a career in medicine. It is also full of Jesus Christ – the difference He has made, and will make, in her current and future practice.

Boldness for Christ… with gentleness and respect. Just what the Doctor of doctors ordered.

Did I mention she was advised against this boldness? By someone at a high level of authority in her medical world? She was told such boldness would jeopardize her chances for any interviews.

The naysayer was wrong. She received multiple interviews. She had “wonderful, beautiful” opportunities to bear witness to her Lord… with people few thought would accept His message.

AND… She begins her new Residency soon.

“Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to His power that is at work within us, to Him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus, throughout all generations, for ever and ever. Amen!”  (Ephesians 3:20)

With her gracious permission, I quote the following excerpts from her Statement. I do so with hope that they will speak powerfully to Christians in any part of the marketplace. Christians who are advancing His Kingdom PURPOSE.

Business owners, executives, and thought-leaders. Other vital contributors, like secretaries (as my own mother was) and janitors.

“I have continued hearing my Savior’s voice in my heart. He inspires and challenges me, using stories like that of the Good Samaritan to ask prying questions that I simply cannot ignore. When I see the hurt and the broken… what will my response be? Will I speak up on their behalf? Will I stop to listen to their stories? Will I lovingly bandage their wounds? Or will I instead be too scared or too busy to really see the needs before me, preferring instead to build up my own ephemeral kingdom with its ivory towers?

“I know that there have been days (and… days will surely come) when tiredness will threaten resolve. However, by the Lord’s grace, I pray that in my weakness I will continue leaning on Him for strength, compassion, and care for the sick. Oh, how I rest on the assurance that I will not persevere in vain and that vainglory will not define me!”

Which of these statements inspire and challenge YOU?

Please post your comments below.

Diana Furr, a.k.a., Abba’s Girl

This blog may have raised questions for you. If you’d like to connect, engage, or get further help from me, you can…  EMAIL me at [email protected]; CALL me at 863-446-1660; or request a complimentary initial CONSULT with me at http://tinyurl.com/DianaFurr.

4 Comments

  • Carolyn Van Ooteghem says:

    I am so glad you and this sister got to meet across the miles! Two people who have inspired me, and whom God will elevate to inspire many, many more! Thank you for blessing her with the meeting! I knew you would also be blessed! Love you, sister!

    • Diana Furr says:

      Dear sister… It was my privilege. And I was doubly-blessed! By this very inspiring newfound sister… AND by the fact that the Lord used you — someone I have loved and admired for so many years — to bring us together. You have a special place in my heart… forever! 🙂

      • Carolyn Van Ooteghem says:

        Steve and I say that you remind us of her, and she reminds us of you! Now, those are some serious compliments! We are so very grateful to love God with you both who spread the fragrance of Christ! Two treasures for eternity! : ) Much love to you and Bud!

        • Diana Furr says:

          What a welcome encouragement your words are, as I log in here to write today’s post! Most people use Coffee as their morning stimulant. We turn to a much better “C” to stimulate our lives… CHRIST! 🙂 Much love to you both!

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