This afternoon I found out some wonderful news about my dad, that many of you reading this blog probably already know: After a diagnosis of cancer on July 18, a follow-up CAT scan showed my dad to have no sign of cancer now! This is a huge praise, nearly four months after his initial diagnosis.

Even as I greatly rejoice and praise God for this incredible news, I somehow find myself in general battling feelings of discouragement at times ... and today was one of those times. I have experienced many moments lately in which my life feels in some respects pretty "ordinary".

I know the life of no believer should seem ordinary really, when God is always doing incredible things in and around us no matter what -- and in some ways that feels especially true when I have the wonderful privilege to serve Him in full-time ministry to reach people in Asia -- but there have been moments lately when it's still a struggle to not feel that things in my life are "ordinary" ... but if I am in the Lord's will, ultimately I am complete in Him and not lacking in any good thing regardless of how I may sometimes "feel" ... and He is all that ultimately matters.

Deep down I so much want to know Him more and grow deeper in Him. Oh Lord, give me a heart to always REJOICE in the cup You give me ... to rejoice in hardship and even feelings of "ordinary-ness" if it means Your name is hallowed in me and Your likeness becomes a little bit more noticeable in me. Oh, Lord, thank you!

I read this verse today and was encouraged and felt God had pointed me to it for a purpose ... I highlighted the part that especially encouraged me today.

"There, in the presence of the LORD your God, you and your families shall eat and shall rejoice in everything you have put your hand to, because the LORD your God has blessed you."
- Deuteronomy 12:7