Olivia's throat started hurting last night, and her forehead felt very warm.

This morning she can barely swallow.

Ignoring the pain now would only make matters worse in a few days,

so I'm calling our doctor as soon as they open and scheduling an appointment.

Some things we just can't fix on our own.

Have you ever reached a time in life when things are difficult to swallow?

Maybe you've been hurt by a friend or family member.

Maybe you've just received not-so-good news from a doctor.

Maybe one of your children is heading in a direction you wish you could change.

Maybe something at work is out of your control but totally in your face.

I've had many hard-to-swallow days in life,

and I've learned that there are just some things that require an expert.

A counselor.

A minister.

A doctor.

An outside voice.

I've sought them all on at least one occasion, and I've received the guidance or medicine I've needed to start my recovery.

Today, Olivia needs a doctor.

I don't know what you need.

But I do know WHO you need on the easy-to-swallow and hard-to-swallow days........

There's only one Great Physician and His healing power supersedes any you'll find on this planet.

I'm thankful this morning for a God who holds the whole world in His hands but still cared enough for us individually to engrave each of our names in His hand.

If you're facing something this week that is difficult to swallow,

seek help.

And know God is with you.....every step of the way toward emotional or physical healing.

See, I have engraved you on the palms of my hands; your walls are ever before me.

Isaiah 49:16

You go before me and follow me.

You place your hand of blessing on my head.

Such knowledge is too wonderful for me,

too great for me to understand!

Psalm 139:5-6