Psalm 25: 4-5, “Shew me thy ways, O LORD; teach me thy paths. Lead me in thy truth, and teach me: for thou art the God of my salvation; on thee do I wait all the day.” The Lord referred to David as “a man after his own heart.” Perhaps this was because David continually sought the Lord for His leading in his life, desiring to know and do God’s will! Herein lies the kind of desire God yearns for each of us.
It might concern many of you to learn that we have returned to the States for medical treatment for Laura, but no one is more surprised than we are. We were back in Tasmania for 4½ months, during which time Laura’s health worsened. We were shocked to learn that the healthcare system is at the point of collapse (what could only be described as mandate fatigue by those working in health). Laura saw five different oncologists, flown in two weeks at a time from other parts of Australia. Her GP would not prescribe the heart medication she was on in the U.S., so the last month we were there, she experienced heart issues. After seeking the Lord’s leading and getting counsel, we made this unexpected return trip. The first week back, Laura was in the hospital for two days because of her heart issues. Her heart medication was reinstated; and, praise God, she has not had any more problems. New cancer treatment is also greatly helping her.
As I was leaving the hospital after seeing my wife, I noticed a man waiting at the entrance. I struck up a conversation with Derek, a 61-year-old man waiting for his brother. He graciously allowed me to share the Gospel with him, and he bowed his head and prayed to receive the gift of salvation through Jesus Christ. Pray that he accepts the invitation to visit church.
Meanwhile, as we continue to pray, we are amazed at how many “divine appointments” the Lord brings across our paths. These are people who could be a neighbor, a person passing us on the street, or one we meet at a shopping center. The point is, there are people in our midst, who might just happen to be waiting to hear the Gospel if we are listening for the Holy Spirit’s leading. For instance, I was driving Laura to a ladies’ meeting last Saturday, and we “happened” to be on a street that we do not normally use. Laura saw a couple putting out items for a garage sale and noticed some things for which she had been specifically praying. Not only did she find several of these items at miracle prices, she also was able to give the couple a tract and invite them to church. They just moved to the area, so we plan to make a follow-up visit.
Then this week, one of the oncology nurses was asking Laura if she was still doing mission work. Although Laura was disappointed that she had not had as many opportunities to witness during her treatment last year, she still left a good testimony. Laura invited this lady to the upcoming Prophecy Conference. The next thing we know, she announced to us her plans to attend and bring her sister as well—another “divine appointment.”
While I have my own ongoing health issues, it is a great encouragement to know of the prayers of so many from amongst you who pray for the Lord to use and guide us. We cannot do it without you. Thank you again.
All to the glory of God and our awesome Saviour,
Andrew L. Steers