I began to realize that God was doing a work in my husband’s spirit. An invisible, internal work with an eternal preparation.
Lamenting his ailing condition, I cried out to the Lord with a question, but was immediately filled with fear for the answer.
“Are You preparing my husband for something?”
“I am preparing you both for My plans.” said the Lord. “Your husband’s earthly tent is wasting away. He is burdened on many levels.”
Already laden with responsibility, my request seemed to come across with a tinge of pleading. “Give me grace to be strong in the care and advocacy for my husband. Enable me to be a wise and noble woman as I conduct the affairs of our household.”
Feeling Jesus’ hands on my shoulders, I looked up into my Savior’s eyes. His voice was soft like a whisper. “The time for care is drawing to a close. Your husband’s spirit is groaning and desires to be clothed with his eternal house in heaven, but his heart is still earth-bound with you, My dear. It is time to release him to Me.”
I fell to the floor weeping with the thought of losing my husband.
Jesus knelt down, meeting me in my pain. “Your sacrifice is sweet to Me and your tears dampen My feet like ointment. I see your great love, but your work on earth is not yet finished.”
The Lord continued as He slowly stood to His feet. “Be confident and do not lose heart. I have been preparing you inwardly, fashioned with intent for a future purpose at an appointed time.”
My heart leaped as the Lord’s voice rang over me. “You are an eternal crown of splendor in My hand, whose value is far greater than rubies. I will exchange these ashes for beauty. Rise up, My virtuous woman.”
Comforted by Isaiah 61:3; 2 Corinthians 5:1-10; Proverbs 31:10, 27; Luke 7:36-50; Isaiah 62:3; Philippians 4:18; Ezra 6:10
