Daily Walking, Working, and Winning by God's Word by Rev. Dr. Alvin C. Hathaway Sr.

Yesterday, I visited a woman who will be 100 years old in November. Each month I visit an assisted living facility where one of the members of the group that I share with is 104 years old. Through my service in ministry, I have had the wonderful experience of coming to know many very mature members - persons greater than 90 years old.

What I have learned from these interactions is that each could say the words found in Isaiah that God has tested them in the furnace of affliction.

Let affliction come - God has tested them. Poverty, may stride in at their door, but God was in their house already, and He had tested them. Sickness, may intrude, but each of them knew they had a balm in Gilead. Whatever has happened to them in the midst of their tears, they know that God has tested them. In their silent chamber, God was sitting with them at their door. He prepared their bed, smoothed their pillow, and caressed their head. Each knew that God was a frequent visitor, even when they were on their beds of affliction. He, indeed, is a friend that sticks closer than a brother.

Don't be afraid, God is with you! Don't be dismayed, God is with you! In every fiery trial, God is with you in the furnace of your affliction. His presence is both your comfort and your protection.

I've learned so much from my visits with the very mature people I have come to know.

God is with you all the way! Especially in your afflictions!