The world was bright, shiny, and bursting with unlimited possibility. For everyone, it seemed, but me. A new year was beginning, and with it came fresh new goals, dreams, and resolutions. But in my world, the new calendar year meant a new reality – one that was too excruciating to even imagine, much less accept. The doctor was sympathetic, but confident in her diagnosis.
My baby was going to die.
My husband and I were informed two days before Christmas. We painstakingly plodded through the holidays, and survived – but far from unscathed. We both knew it could be our son’s first and last Christmas. Every joyful carol was a reminder of our family’s fate, and twinkling lights only illuminated the awareness of our sickening new normal.
Ordinary, everyday tasks became almost unbearable for me: taking a shower, cooking, cleaning, unsuccessfully nurturing a heartbroken marriage, and taking care of a baby who would soon, we were told, no longer be.
On a dreary winter morning, I stood in front of my bathroom mirror, attempting to ready myself for yet another dreadful day. In desperation I called out to God, tears washing away what little makeup I’d somehow managed to apply. “God, please help me!” I cried, physically dropping to my knees, a position that had become like second nature.
At that moment, I very clearly heard the words “Philippians 4.” I was familiar with the passage but went quickly to find my Bible, desperate for any tangible encouragement I could find. I wanted to see the words, read them, hear them, feel them.
I was starving for any small morsel of God’s presence in my dire situation.
As I carefully read verses I had read a hundred times, that day I noticed something I’d never noticed before. Philippians 4:6 says, “ . . . by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.”
With thanksgiving? I focused on the words cynically.
I definitely wasn’t feeling one bit thankful for anything. But as I thought and prayed more about it, the concept began to make sense. Perfect sense. When we ask God for something, the request should always be prefaced with thanksgiving. Because only then are we in a position to receive the precious, invaluable peace He promises.
The Lord is near.
Do not be anxious about anything,
In every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.
And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
So I began to thank God for everything I could think of – extended family, a warm home, my husband’s job. When I did, even in that seemingly hopeless situation, I was able to experience the peace of God.
There is much more to this story, but the bottom line is this: My husband and I were told by a very well-respected physician that our six-month-old baby boy would die before his second birthday – and that any future children would likely be stricken with the same fate.
But God, in His sovereignty, had different plans. That precious baby boy is healthy and thriving. He just finished his first semester of college and has a beautiful seventeen-year-old sister.
We all know that every story doesn’t have a happy ending. All these years later, it’s “easy” for me to testify to God’s goodness –now, when things are better and my children are alive and well. But back then, I didn’t know the outcome. I only knew that God allowed me moments of peace amidst immense turmoil.
There will inevitably be pain and heartache in this life. But I have learned that when I take the time to express thanksgiving to God as a part of my prayers, it makes a monumental difference in my state of mind.
Perfect peace is not just for hopeless, desperate, wretched days . . . but for every day.
As a new year begins, no matter what mountain you’re facing — sickness, anxiety, depression, anger, fear, loneliness – if you are in a place that leaves you feeling constantly weak, frustrated, and utterly helpless, look around for blessings you may have temporarily forgotten. A grateful heart is vital because it is the gateway to peace – a peace that is beyond human comprehension.
When we exercise thanksgiving as a part of our prayer lives, we take the first step in discovering the miraculous peace of God. A peace that can lead to a future that is truly bright and bursting with unlimited possibility.
Leave a Comment
Michele Morin says
“. . . look around for blessings you may have temporarily forgotten.”
This phrase hit home this morning, Kelly. It’s so good of God to bless us with reminders of His grace, and when we go through life half blind, we miss the blessing. I want to be a woman looking around.
Kelly Wilson Mize says
So glad it resonated with you. Let’s not miss a thing, Sister! ❤️
Anastasia Corbin says
Thank you for sharing this devotional. It sure hit home for me this morning. My word of the year is Praise and this devotional cemented even more my need to give thanks and praise God no matter what.
Kelly Wilson Mize says
Amen, Anastasia! ❤️
Brenda says
Sweet testimony of His provision of peace in the midst of uncertainty. Love how beautifully thanksgiving threads itself throughout His plans for our stories. — PTL for the health of your children. 🙂 Thank you for sharing, Kelly.
Kelly Wilson Mize says
Amen! Thank you, Brenda! ❤️
Little Mary says
Wow! How beautiful that the Lord allowed your kids to grow and prosper!! Awesome!! Thank you for sharing the story of how you were able to experience God’s peace! I want to look out for His blessings too 🙂 !
Kelly Wilson Mize says
Let’s continue to be on the lookout. His mercies are new every morning! ❤️
Joey Rudder says
Oh my, what a powerful story! Thank you for opening up and sharing something so real and painful and allowing us to peek in and see God’s provision of peace…and His beautiful plans for your family. God bless you, Kelly.
Kelly Wilson Mize says
Thank you so much for your kind words, Joey. God bless you!
Shanice says
Thank you Kelly so much for sharing your story! Definitely needed to read this, this morning.
Kelly Wilson Mize says
Thanks, Shanice. God is so good! ❤️
Valerie Bruce says
Thankyou Kelly. This was a reminder to be thankful everyday no matter what. I too went through miracles with my son. He was a premie not expected to ever make it out of hospital. When he did i was told hed never walk and be retarded. He is deaf and has cerebral palsy but that dont stop him.To this day he is a smart young man at 36 years old. He travels everywhere on his own. He is my blessing everyday.
Kelly Wilson Mize says
Amen, Valerie! May God continue to bless your family! ❤️
Valerie Bruce says
Thankyou it means so much to me.Amen
Lara says
Kelly, your devotional was right on time for me today. I am dealing with a chronic digestive disorder that is zapping my strength and spirit. In a few minutes, I’m going to fall to my knees and present my requests to my Lord with THANKSGIVING! < I needed this sweet reminder. Thank you! Praise God from Whom all Blessings flow!
Kelly Wilson Mize says
Thank God that HIS timing is perfect! Praying for your strength and healing, Lara. Your attitude is inspiring! ❤️
Joan Moore says
Beautiful testimony!!! Thank you for the reminder to ALWAYS be Grateful and Thankful!!!
Kelly Wilson Mize says
Thank you, Joan! God bless you! ❤️
Susan Garrett says
I received thre same verse from God when my 26 month old was diagnosed with her first brain tumor. His emphasis for me was on be anxious for nothing — without adding an “unless”. Unless you’re child has a brain tumor.
My daughter did survive that tumor to the amazement of doctors. But she went to “hug Jesus” at 4 with her second tumor. During both times I received unbelievable peace from God. He is faithful.
Christine Marie says
Susan – my heart breaks for you and the loss of your daughter. I’m amazed that you even have the strength to write about this. Your faith in God is inspiring.
♥ Christine Marie
Sharah says
Susan – ((Hugs))
Kelly Wilson Mize says
Susan, your story brings tears to my eyes, and your faith is such an inspiration. May God continue to grant you His strength and peace. ❤️
Penny says
Susan,
I am deeply sorry for your loss, and pray that you continue to find comfort in the Lord.
Blessings,
Penny
Kim B Smith says
God is with us! What a miraculous story. I work on the thanksgiving for Him everyday and accept His Peace no matter what is going on.
My heart is so full reading this to know and feel your son is alive and well. Xo
Kelly Wilson Mize says
He is indeed with us—praise His name! Thank you, Kim! ❤️
Pearl Allard says
Kelly, your words and story reminded me of the message in One Thousand Gifts by Ann Voskamp. Your words, “a grateful heart is vital because it is the gateway to peace,” not only paint a beautiful picture but a life-changing truth. Thank you (sneaking in thanksgiving here!) for the reminder to make the sacrifice of praise and thanksgiving even when, maybe especially when, it feels like a sacrifice.
Kelly Wilson Mize says
Amen, Pearl! I must go and read “One Thousand Gifts” now! ❤️
MaryMargaret says
Wow! I really enjoyed reading your post. It brought me joy and peace. 🙂 I love how God’s understanding and power is so much greater than any doctor. In a different way, but similar to your experience, my Grandma was told that her daughter(my aunt) would not live past a certain age, like 2 years old, but she is now in her 50’s.
Your post also reminds me to be thankful. Thankfulness really helps. 1 Thessalonians 5:18
Have a thankful day!!:)
Kelly Wilson Mize says
Thanks so much, MaryMargaret! Hope your day has been one filled with thanksgiving! ❤️
Christine Marie says
Kelly – thank you so much for these words of encouragement today. A grateful heart is vital because it is the gateway to peace. I’ve been repeating this over and over. Such WISDOM!!
Be Blessed,
Christine Marie
Kelly Wilson Mize says
Thank you so much for your encouraging words, Christine! God bless you! ❤️
Amy Harper says
God is good & always faithful!
Kelly Wilson Mize says
Amen! ❤️
Jen says
I truly believe gratitude is the path to peace! In the present moment there is always something to be thankful for. My son has a diagnosis that is not as dire as that doctor made your son’s seem, but it is going to affect him the rest of his life and it’s all unknown how it will play out. Sometimes I find myself thanking God for this sorrow so I can fully embrace that how he created him is good and on purpose. Thank you for sharing your story, I’m praising the Lord that your story turned out much differently than expected.
Kelly Wilson Mize says
Thank you, Jen! I am praying right now that you will experience God’s peace amidst your son’s diagnosis. God bless you and your family! ❤️
Penny says
Kelly,
I was so relieved for you that all ended well. Thankful for all the hard times that God has seen me through, and it’s helped me appreciate the good ones even more. Thank-you so much for sharing from your heart with us today…
Blessings to all,
Penny
Kelly Wilson Mize says
Thank you, Penny! And Amen! ❤️
Amanda Jobe says
What an amazing testimony of God’s faithfulness and power you have to share -and beautifully written. Thank you for this reminder.
Kelly Wilson Mize says
Thank you so much, Amanda! ❤️
Janet says
Beautiful!! Thank you for sharing your heart! God has used your words to encourage me spiritually.❤️
Kelly Wilson Mize says
Your words are encouraging to me as well, Janet. Thank you so much! ❤️
Sarah says
Thankfulness is coupled with surrender to the will of God. When we can truly rest and trust in Him and be thankful for the blessings despite what the circumstances might deliver, WOW, what great peace that brings!! Have had this myself in many difficult situations.
Kelly Wilson Mize says
Amen! Thanks, Sarah! ❤️
Rebecca Jones says
I belong to a prayer board. I have seen lots of baby miracles, but one little boy passed last week, he was two, his mother pregnant with a sister, I know you can have peace about someone being in heaven, but it is within our grasp to fight for life, it is fragile and precious, and Jesus died to give it in abundance.
Kelly Wilson Mize says
May that family feel the peace of God in a supernatural way. Saying a prayer for them now. ❤️
Summer Rae says
Miss Kelly,
I had goose bumps the entire way through your story… Thank you for sharing the story our Heavenly Father is writing through you. Absolutely amazing. Your genuine, strength and faith truly touched my heart and brought me so much encouragement. Thank you again. May God bless you and your beautiful family as long as you seek Him.
This side of Heaven,
Summer Rae
Kelly Wilson Mize says
Summer! Your sweet encouragement brought tears to my eyes. May God bless you richly! ❤️
Jenni Ho-Huan says
I was SO relieved to read that your children lived. When I first saw the post in my inbox, I actually whispered a prayer for you! There is a Psalm that talks about thanksgiving preparing us for God’s salvation. (Psa 50v23). I totally agree with you. But I fail in doing it faithfully, yikes! Another warrior mom-blogger is Ann Voskamp who has written tomes about gratitude, from every perceivable angle. You will like her if you don’t already know her and her writing. Blessings from Singapore!
Kelly Wilson Mize says
Thank you, Jenni! I’m going to look up Psalm 50:23 today! Thank you for your sweet encouragement. So excited to hear from Singapore. God bless you! ❤️
Beth Williams says
Kelly,
I often look for blessings God graciously sends. The blessings-both big and small-are written on a list that I can add to & look at anytime. This life is hard & full of trials. Some trials are so hard that we just cry out to God. We can have true peace even in the midst of trials. Pray with thanksgiving-reminding ourselves what God has done for us. Also hiding scripture in your heart to recall is important. They both help to give us a sense of peace & calm in the midst of storms. God answers all prayers His way & in His timing. So glad your son lived & you got a daughter also.
Blessings 🙂
Kelly Wilson Mize says
Amen, Sister. And thank you, Beth! ❤️
Jas says
Honestly thank you!! I need this right now where I am x gratitude and prayer with thanksgiving!!! I need Gods peace to calm my mind xxx
Anna says
Praying for you. Xx
Kelly Wilson Mize says
Jas, praying God’s peace for you right now! Thank you for your sweet response to my story. ❤️
Anna says
Wow wow wow, what an amazing story. The with Thanksgiving part reminded me of a time I had with God about a year after my mum died (I was in my early 22). He asked me to thank Him!!!! After a bit of a battle and many tears I did. It bought amazing peace a little bit of understanding. I still don’t completely get why. But that’s not my business. I would love her here still, but she isn’t and that hurts, she’s never met my husband or children and they’ve never met her. However God is bigger and He can and will give peace in all kinds of terrible situations one day we may understand or not. Thank you for sharing your story is incredible and your witness of peace a fantastic reminder and encouragement.
Kelly Wilson Mize says
Thank you, Anna, for your encouraging comment. I love hearing about the experiences of others that confirm The miraculous truth of God’s word. Peace to you, today! ❤️
Val Slininger says
Dear Kelly, I am so grateful for this post. Thank you for sharing it! Even though your heart was being ripped out of your chest all those years ago, I imagine that the joy of discovering God’s absolute and perfect faithfulness has never left you. I have been a believer since I was a child, but this past year at the age of 54, I experienced sadness and grief like I have not ever had to journey through before, ever. I had to let go of a precious loved one, due to a separation, and impending divorce. It literally broke my heart. I had to cling to God’s promises in a way that I’ve never experienced before, and He showed me such comfort and healing, moment by moment. And then the unexpected miracle, that is still blowing my mind. Our kids are reconciling, and the son-in-law that I thought I had to let go of, is being given back to our family. We are still in some of the hard part as they journey forward, but I know for a fact I have learned a deeper understanding of God’s perfect love and provision–not because of the outcome–but because he held my broken heart in His precious hands, and kept my every tear in a jar–and He treasured my heartache– And reminded me of every true thing I had forgotten. I praise His name!
Kelly Wilson Mize says
Thanks so much for sharing this, Val. ‘Moment by moment’ is exactly right. Grateful for God’s faithfulness in your life and your willingness to encourage others by sharing it. ❤️