Instruments of Praise

Wondering what He has in Store
One of my favorite songs includes the line, “These hands that You have made/are instruments of praise.”

[Note: edited to add the link to the song video]

I’ve been thinking about that line a lot, lately, as I’ve made the rounds between the rheumatologist, the occupational therapist, and the orthopedic surgeon, trying to manage the arthritis that affects my hands. It looks like surgery on my left thumb may be in my near future.

I had surgery on my right thumb last year. It was successful, but not fun.

I’m ambivalent about the prospect of another round of surgery. I’m frustrated when I need help to open a jar and discouraged when I’m awakened at night by pain.

Then I feel guilty for the frustration and discouragement. It’s a painful hand I’m coping with, not a terminal illness. I refocus on my gratitude for family and friends who will open that jar. I give thanks that when I awaken at one a.m., I’m in a warm bed in a comfortable, secure home.

And then the cycle begins again: frustration, discouragement, guilt, gratitude.

I have a feeling that God has some wonderful lessons planned for me in the coming weeks and months. I am on the edge of my seat.

I’m sharing two scriptures this post, instead of my customary one.

17 May the favor of the Lord our God rest upon us; establish the work
of our hands for us— yes, establish the work of our hands.
Psalm 90:17 (NIV)

8 I will therefore that men pray every where, lifting up holy hands, without
wrath and doubting.
1 Timothy 2:8 (KJV)