ALL the Time

I received some very good news today.

I've spent the better part of the last 4 weeks in and out of my doctor's office, having tests and waiting on results.  The last one felt like a big one simply because it was called a biopsy.  The doctor didn't really expect to find a malignancy in my body, but she had enough doubt to order it just in case.

Today the doctor called and said the words I'd been waiting to hear, "All clear."  The deep sigh of relief and the full breath I was able to inhale and exhale in the next moment were enormous.  I didn't even realize how tense I'd been until I felt my entire body relax.

I had so many people to share the good news with.  Delivering good news is so much fun, and it didn't take long for the replies to begin pouring in.  The most common being a joyous, "God is good!"  I smiled and laughed with every single one, feeling grateful and lighthearted and spoiled by so many loving friends.

When the third, "God is good!" arrived, I mentally finished the thought, "ALL the time." And that's when it hit me.  God is good.  All the time.

Had the doctor's news been different, had there been a malignancy, had I been facing a much more difficult journey this afternoon, God would still be good.

He is good on this path, and He would be good on that one, too.  My circumstances do not have any bearing on his character.  On his goodness or faithfulness or sovereignty.  He is always good, always faithful, and always in control.

Now, if only I could learn to live that way day in and day out!

This morning, I read from Philippians 4. This afternoon, Paul's words are all the more profound to me,  Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. I can do all things through him who strengthens me. Philippians 4:11-13

God is good. All the time.