Heart Failure

"My heart and my flesh may fail but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever."
Psalm 73:26

I just checked in to the hospital again a little over a year after I was discharged. Psalm 73:26 was one of my theme verses when I went into the "storm" last year. Currently, I'm seeing old friends and catching up with those who still work here (Swedish Cherry Hill) who treated me last year during my 104 day stay. 

It's different this time. I know what's happening going into the procedure and this is exciting for me and the staff here. While my doctor has done many decommissionings of the heart pump (LVAD) in other locations this is only the second one in Seattle that he has done. 

Needless to say I'm in a small percentage of people who have this outcome. I attribute much of my recovery to the prayers of God's people all around the world that have gone up for me and my family. I'm also grateful for the excellent medical personnel who have treated me and walked me through this. 

I needed a surgeon and I got a good one here in Seattle. More importantly God showed me that He is my strength and my portion always and forever. He went deeper with me while I learned to rely on him even more. I can rely on God in my tribulations and in my triumphs. I can look to Him in good times and bad times. God is my great physician. 

Your situation might not be the same as mine but I encourage you to turn to the One who is faithful and true.  He is our source for all things good. 

As the old song goes, "He will make a way where there seems to be no way. He works in ways we cannot see. He will make a way for me. He will be my guide and hold me closely to his side. He will make a way."

I'm reminded of a chorus that the churches in Kenya sang when we were last there. The song ended with these words.

"Jehovah has the final say!!!"

Blessings,
Pastor Derek Forseth