By His Spirit

'Not by might nor by power, but by my Spirit,' says the LORD Almighty. Zechariah 4:6

I wanted to tell you that my second son, Luke Jonathan, was born two weeks ago tomorrow on May 29th. And although it was a wonderful birth, it was a LONG labor! Twenty-three hours it took this one to come.

Okay, so this is the point in the story when those listening (especially women) usually say, "I don't know how you do it! You are braver (or stronger) than me!" I guess I should clarify: I have had all my children naturally, independent of any pain relievers of any kind. People are amazed. I'm writing this entry to help explain how this is possible for me.

Before my second child was born at home I felt compelled to print and frame this quote from Psalm 18:

"It is God who arms me with strength and makes my way perfect. He makes my feet like the feet of a deer; he enables me to stand on the heights. He trains my hands for battle; my arms can bend a bow of bronze. You give me your shield of victory, and your right hand sustains me; you stoop down to make me great. You broaden the path beneath me, so that my ankles do not turn."

I hung it right above my nightstand. I read it occasionally at first, more as the years have gone by. More and more with this pregnancy and impending birth.

God is so faithful! As I labored long and hard with this last (yes, last!) child I felt the presence of God so richly. He enabled me to endure to the end. I, in and of myself, am certainly NOT capable of natural childbirth. But He in me...well, I believe anything is possible!

I can't fully describe the gratitude and awe I have for God. It is awesome to walk through a major event in your life, whatever it may be, totally depending on Him. Because, I'll tell you what friend, He'll NEVER let you down.

"May the God of peace equip you with everything good for doing his will, and may he work in us what is pleasing to him, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen." Hebrews 13:20-21