About Bill
In late October of 1996, just weeks after my 36th birthday, I was diagnosed with a terminal disease called Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. After hearing the long and difficult-to-pronounce name of this disease I understood why people use the abbreviation of ALS or call it “Lou Gehrig’s Disease” (after the famous New York Yankee’s player that died from it).
The diagnosis that I had 2 to 5 years to live came as a complete surprise because I had always enjoyed such great health. I didn’t even have a family doctor and had never spent one day in the hospital. Our life was going well. Our 11 year marriage was great, our daughters (ages 7 & 4) were healthy and happy… A few years earlier we built a new home and I had been promoted to the regional sales manager position that I had wanted for 10 years. Every aspect of our life was working well; we were living our small part of the “American Dream.”
I quickly discovered that trials don’t just affect one area of our life; a health crisis impacts our finances, our emotional and spiritual life and our relationships etc. Every part of our lives are connected to one another like parts of an engine and one part breaking effects the performance of the whole engine.
Within a year of being diagnosed I could no longer walk or talk so I had to resign from my job.
Even though ALS has drastically impacted my life and that of my wife and our two daughters, I don’t believe anyone should allow a disease or any life-challenge to define who they are. To do so is to give that disease or challenge more credit than it deserves and it’s the first step on the dead-end road of hopelessness.
This trial has taught us that the only way to experience genuine and consistent hope, peace and joy in the midst of a trial is to view our life and situation through God’s eyes. For me, learning this was a long and difficult, but rewarding process; an ongoing process that will continue to the day I go to be with God.
My motive for starting this blog is to pass along some of the lessons I’ve learned through the course of this trial and hopefully help others avoid some of the detrimental (hope-stealing) mistakes I’ve made.
These are important lessons for everyone to learn because, as I heard someone say, if you’re not going through a trial now, a trial is coming. I know that’s not good news, but it’s the truth. But, as I hope to show, we don’t have to fear trials because God can handle anything that this life throws our way and we can handle them too if we see the trials through the eyes of Christ!
Why did I choose the name “Unshakable Hope” for my blog?
I don’t believe God causes trials, but He clearly does allow them for reasons I don’t believe we will ever fully understand, at least not in this life. But, whatever other reasons God has for allowing trials, I discovered two big things that He accomplishes through our trials; He helps us reset our priorities and forms our character. (Obviously He had a lot of work to do on me).
God helps us reset our priorities (through trials) by “…the removing of those things which can be shaken, as of created things, so that those things which cannot be shaken may remain…we receive a kingdom which cannot be shaken…” (Hebrews 12:27-28)
I certainly discovered that my health, finances and many other things I unknowingly was putting faith in (prior to this trial) could be shaken.
Through the following character shaping process (in our trials), I discovered that hope is one of the things that cannot be shaken; hence the name “Unshakable Hope.” “…we exult in hope of the glory of God. And not only this, but we also exult in our tribulations, knowing that tribulation brings about perseverance; and perseverance, proven character; and proven character, hope; and hope does not disappoint…” (Romans 5:3-5)
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Hi Bill. I have been slowly working away on my blog (how its set up) and I have provided a link to your blog in my “links” section. I hope that is ok. I really would like people to be able to access your writing to be inspired that they can make a difference – you strip away the excuses. You also have a page on becoming a Christian (which I don’t have yet) so I may use that if that is also ok. Blessings, and looking forward to meeting some of you family later this week 🙂
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Thank you, Beth. I am going to check out your blog. To be honest, I am still an amateur when it comes to this blogging thing 🙂 I just haven’t taken the time needed to build a good blog. You’ve inspired me to watch some YouTube videos on blog building and make some changes. Now if I can just find the time 🙂
Thanks, my friend.
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I went to YOUR blog to get some inspiration 🙂 I’m trying to refine it, but I’m also aware content is supreme (ie: good quality content comes first, I can slowly sort the rest). ‘Met’ your beautiful girl and family – such a privilege, such a delight. She has a hug and kiss for you and Mary XX
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Thanks, Beth. Lauren and the kids greatly enjoyed the zoom meeting. I knew you were kindred spirits 🙂
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They’re all beautiful 🌷 and yes I think we are 😊
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I just found your blog today. Thank you for sharing. Keep faith in the Lord! God has a plan for all of us.
God Bless
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Yes, God has a plan for all of us. Thank you, Sandy.
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Hallelujah!! Praise GOD!!! Only GOD knew I needed this word ….. thank you for being such a willing vessel that GOD can use to show forth His glory ! God bless you and your family always
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Thank you so much for letting me know. God bless you.
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Thanks for visiting Looking for the Blessed Hope. I tracked back to your website and was very blessed to hear your story and how you and your family are allowing God to work in the midst of what the world would see as dreadful circumstances. Your faith in Him seems genuine and your desire to use your situation is truly testimony to His work in your life and your family’s life. God bless you…and keep shining your Light!
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Thank you for your encouraging words. God bless your ministry.
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So thankful I found this blog and you!
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Thank you for taking the time to read, Robert.
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Wow! What a blessing to know you. You have let your trials lead you and people to the truth. You are an inspiration!
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Thank you so much, Temi.
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My pleasure 🙂
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Thanks for sharing your story. You provide great encouragement for others. My prayers will stay with you.
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Thanks so much for your comments and for your prayers.
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You are very welcome.
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I loved seeing the pictures of your beautiful family. I can see in their shining faces how much they love you. What a blessing – and what a blessing you are to them!
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Thank you, Annie. I am so blessed with a family that loves me.
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Dear Brother Bill, I am so blessed to ‘meet’ you thru this blog. Since the Apostle Paul I have never met anyone with such much grace as you. This scripture applies to all true believers but is so much real to you. “We never give up. Our bodies are gradually dying, but we ourselves are being made stronger each day” (2Cor 4:16; CEV). Clearly, this sickness is only in your body. it is only ‘skin deep’. It has not contaminated your spirit. Therefore, this sickness is a loser. The devil is a liar! You are the winner! Be encouraged today by the power of the Holy Spirit! God bless your dear wife!
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Thank you, Silvia. I’m following a Bible reading plan as I do every year and just finished 2 Corinthians Friday – it’s so good, especially chapter four! Amen!
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Hi Bill. It is so glad to see you are following along with us. We know we’ll enjoy your site also.
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I’ll be traveling with you, virtually 🙂
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This is great to hear Bill. Its great when we all in this WP environment can encourage one another to greater heights.
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YES! It’s a sense of community. Happy 4th of July!
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Thank you and Happy 4th to you and your family also!
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Greetings! You have an amazing testimony there Bill, I’m so glad you have shared it with us. I look forward to reading more of your blog. Thanks for stopping by my little blog, please stop by anytime, love to have you!
Steve.
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Thank you for stopping by and following my blog, Steve.
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My pleasure! Enjoyed reading one of your posts there this evening and I will be back for more! And thanks for following my blog as well!
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Thank you.
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Thank you so much for finding in visiting my blog. Your writing is beautiful and we share hope and strength and the will to keep going. I’m looking forward to following your blog and wishing you the best and your continued astonishing journey to live such a fulfilled life. By reading just to blog post I can see you’re an inspiration to many and now you can add me to that list. Be well my new friend.
-Rich
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Thank you for dropping by my blog, Rich, and thank you for your encouraging comments. Wishing you a great 2019.
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Thank you for dropping by to my blog through this I found your website…
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Thank you, Ray.
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Every word of your story resonates with the power of God and it is beautiful the way it can encourage another human being, as it does me now. My family personally knows how a ‘ disability’ is a God given ability, through all the darker shades that follow. All I can see here is the Light of God shining through. Thank you so much. And I must tell you am grateful for Bro Bruce who talked about your blog here. We have a young son who is visually challenged and recently has been having seizures.. it is scary, the new pathway the Lord leads us through. We’ve been shaken, set back, affected in more ways than we knew possible. Your Peace flows through and I know it is the Power of Christ that paralyses all other forces and braces us with spirit wings. God bless your beautiful family and work, with tears of joy and warm greetings, a sister in Christ. Stay Blest dear warrior:)
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Thank you so much for your encouragement. I’m sorry that your son is having these problems. It’s so difficult to see our kids going through trials, especially when they’re little. One of our daughters had five eye surgeries and it was really difficult for us, and for her, of course 🙂
I’m glad that Bruce let you know about my blog; he has been such an encouragement to me over the years.
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You are such a great influence in my life. I pray for you every day. Yes, there is a purpose in everything the Lord allows in our life. I am in my 14th year with AlS, still doing well. Then I had a fall the end of November, broke 3 bones and ended up in Pioneer Lodge for two months. Wherever I go, God goes with me. The Lord opened up amazing opportunities to bless other patients and pray with some of the staff. I’m glad the Lord still chooses to use me and to use you in such an awesome way too, Bill.
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It’s so good to hear from you. I’m sorry to hear about you falling, ouch. With ALS, walking and transfers can be dangerous. I have fallen when I used to walk, 20 years ago, and I’ve fallen out of the transfer lift several times since. Broken bones, teeth and too many painful incidents. I feel for you, my friend. But, I’m glad you were able to help and encourage others even in your pain. God didn’t cause you to get ALS or cause you to fall, but He was able to use you in your trials.
Thank you so much for your prayers.
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Thanks for an uplifting and encouraging post. Your faith is an inspiration. May God bless you in all things including health – and what a lovely family you have.
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Thank you, Stephanie.
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Thank you for sharing your great testimony for the Lord. You are so right God is good, every day. Thanks visiting and liking my post so I could find your blog.
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Yes, Gay, God is so good. Thanks for dropping by.
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Bill, I recently wrote a post, “Oh That I Would Ever Wonder”, about God knowing our needs as His child and the Holy Spirit using others to meet those needs. I have been so blessed to have found your site and many other fellow Christian bloggers just recently. I cared for ALS patients at different times when I was a rehabilitation nurse. I only know from that perspective what your challenges are, and I know personally, that is no knowledge at all. Your hope and life demonstrates the love, faith, and trust you have in Jesus. I read through some of your blog and listened to your and Mary’s interview. I prayed right then for you and Mary. I thank God for letting me meet you and read your testimony. It has been such a great blessing to me. I thank Him for you and Mary’s life and the work that you are doing. I will continue to pray for you Bill and Mary.
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Thank you, Gay, for your encouraging words and for your prayers. As you rightly said, ALS is a real challenge – I am so thankful for God blessing me with Mary and so many others that have helped us in this extended trial.
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Thank you sharing such a personal testimony! Praying for you and your family! God loves you each one!
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Thank you so much for your prayers, Gail.
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❤
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Thank you for stopping by my blog so that I could find yours—I’m very pleased to meet you. You are an amazing testimony of faith, hope, and love!
I can’t even imagine what it’s like to deal with ALS and I hope I never do. You are definitely a stronger person than I am—I am reminded that my whining, complaining, and asking “Why me?” on my bad days is such a narrow-minded, self-centered way to be, especially when people like you are going through so much more and still have a positive attitude that inspires others to focus instead on God’s eternal perspective.
I have a question for you and you may have covered the answer in another blog post that I haven’t read yet, but if I’m not being too nosy and you’re willing to answer, I’d appreciate it. With having ALS for so long now, which must be God’s amazing power at work in your life, what assistive devices do you use to help you keep up a blog or do you still have enough hand function to type?
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Thank you for your encouraging words, Mia.
I’m not “just saying this,” but I am definitely not stronger than you or any other follower of Christ. It’s truly God’s grace that expands to the size of our trial, if we’re relying on Christ in the trial.
I haven’t had the ability to type (with my hands) in 20 years, Mia. I use a special computer that has a camera that tracks my eye movements as I scan a keyboard on my computer screen. It’s slow, but I (by necessity) have become quite good with the often frustrating process. The worst part of ALS (MND in New Zealand) is losing the ability to speak. So this is also my only way to “talk.” Needless to say I lose most disagreements with my wife 🙂
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Well, your faith and hope and positive attitude are definitely inspirational to me and many others! I’m so glad technology is available to help you communicate through the written word—I know your wife appreciates being able to communicate with you (and remind you that she’s always right😉) plus we all enjoy reading your encouraging and enlightening posts. Blessings to you and your family as you allow God to use you to bless others.
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Thank you, Mia. Yes, my wife always claims she’s right when I’m not on my computer 🙂
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I’ve heard that to keep peace in the house, the husband needs to learn, as soon as possible, that the wife’s always right 😉…
(I think I heard that from my husband 😜)
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Your husband is a wise man, Mia. It’s taken me 32 years of marriage to come to that conclusion 🙂
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😂
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Thank you for sharing with Mature Living. My mother passed away in 1979 from ALS after being diagnosed for only 17 months. She was very brave through it all and her attitude impacted many people. She was featured in a 3 part series in the local small town newspaper. Ironically the last segment came out the day she passed away. She may not have been able to impact people around the world, but she certainly did in our small local community.
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Thank you for visiting my blog, Jerri. I’m so sorry that you lost your mom, especially to this horrible disease. God bless you.
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When Jesus heard that, he said, This sickness is not unto death, but for the glory of God, that the Son of God might be glorified thereby. John 11:4
And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose. Romans 8:28
God works all things for His glory!
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Amen! Thank you, Joseph.
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Thank you for your love for Jesus, and for visiting my blog!
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Thank you, Joseph.
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That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ: 1 Peter 1:7
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Amen. I love that verse.
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Amen And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee:
for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most
gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that
the power of Christ may rest upon me.
Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in
reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses
for Christ’s sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong. 2 Corinthians 12:9-10
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Amen, Ian. I am so impressed with your spiritual maturity – so rare for a 12 year old. I am following your blog and I’m looking forward to reading your posts.
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Amen. Thank you
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Thank you, my new blogging friend.
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Bill, Your strength is greater than any of my efforts could imagine. You are a great Rollmodel.
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Thank you so much.
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Hello Bill – I just stumbled across your blog today, you’ve touched something deep inside of me with your testimony. I lost my dear brother to ALS six years ago. His progression was quick, and within 16 months of his diagnosis he was gone. I had the privilege of being Scott’s caregiver as I watched this disease take over his body. My greatest joy was leading my brother to Christ shortly before he died. And, while I selfishly wanted him here with me (I still do), I am at peace that my brother is walking and running in his new perfect body in His eternal heavenly home. It gives me joy to be able to connect with you, and great joy to see that you are still here. You have a strong witness and your courage to carry forward with the message of Jesus speaks volumes. God bless you and your family. And, a special blessing to your caregivers – I know it’s not an easy life. I’m going to stick around for a while and cheer you on. If you like, you can visit me at HeartoftheJourney.com ❤️
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Victoria,
Thank you so much for sharing this. I’m so sorry that you lost your brother to this cruel disease. People with ALS are so thankful for selfless caregivers like you were to your brother. Because of your love and witness, your brother will spend eternity in the presence of Christ, with you. This is the important thing.
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Hello Bill! So nice to see another survivor living with this terrible disease ALS. Reading your posts are uplifting and inspirational for not only us living with the disease but also those who are experiencing any tribulation. Stay strong my friend! And God bless you and those who travel this journey with you!
Lisa Marie Da Ponte
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Thank you for visiting my site and liking it, Bill. Doing so led me to your blog. You have a beautiful family, and one amazing outlook on life. Thank you for proving those doctors wrong, finding purpose within your diagnosis, and sharing that with the world. We all have so very much to learn from you. Blessings to you and your heroic wife 🙂
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Bill, I believe what you have is the same as what my family referred to as Huntington’s disease. I was fortunate to be in a branch whose grandfather did not have the disease. I understand that it will not show up unless one’s parents had it. Of my great grandmother’s family six out of twelve children carried and passed on the disease to half of their children. If it is the same, I can see that the Lord has been gracious to allow you this added time of a productive life. Most of my family began showing the symptoms in late twenties or near that and were disabled shortly after; I think all passed in their thirties or forties. I am not meaning to be pessimistic. I’m joining you in thankfulness that you are able to write this blog and be such an inspiration to others; especially, those who think they have to give up just because a prognosis is bad. Keep going, Bill and Mary. I sure you bless others. Unshakable Hope, Indeed!
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Thank you for your kind words, Oneta.
ALS is similar to Huntington’s disease (from what I understand) in the sense that it paralyzes the body, but it also affects the mind – dreadful disease! If a person wanted to make an enemy suffer, it would be hard to think of something worse than Huntington’s disease.
So happy you are not a part of that family branch.
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I believe it generally showed mental problems before physical. I know a lot of my aunts and uncles were placed in mental institution in Pueblo, Colo. That is not true of my cousins (my generation). Thankfully they had learned much about the disease by that time. I wasn’t close enough to know just how they medicated them. Probable just kept them “dumbed down.” I have checked your follow. It will be a reminder to pray for one thing, as well as to keep up with the progress of your family in this situation. Be strong in Jesus. Thanks for your follow.
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I am glad that the form of ALS I have is not genetic.
Thank you for following my blog, Oneta.
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Hi Bill. I noticed you stopped by my blog. I’m just discovering yours and it is awesome. I subscribed – you have a gift. God bless you and your family.
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Thank you for your encouragement and for following my blog, Katie.
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Hello Bill: I have worked with your brother Mark for a long time and have heard him talk of you many times. Mark shared your appearance on the Chris Fabry show with me and my heart was touched by you, your wife Mary, your story and your faith. I too am a devout follower of Christ and know that hearing your story, and now reading your blog, will help grow in my walk with Jesus. Thank you & God bless.
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Thank you very much, Kathryn, for listening to the Chris Fabry interview and for all reading my blog. I hope working with my brother is okay 🙂
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Hi Bill. My name is Keira Smith and I enjoyed listening to you and your wife on Moody radio today. There are times in my life when I think everything is going bad…but that only last for a couple of minutes. Then I realize that God is carrying me through whatever it is I may be going through at the time (just like in Footprints 👣; I love that short story).
I enjoyed how positive you have remained after everything you have gone through. I admire the amount of work you put into delivering God’s message and how much time it takes you to do something most of us take for granted doing with ease. I really look forward to hearing and reading your blogs in the future. Thank you for being amazing!!!
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Thank you for visiting the blog and posting your encouraging comments, Keira. Also, thank you for listening to the Chris Fabry show yesterday. As I’m sure you noticed, Mary was nervous, but like me she wanted to give others hope in Christ. He is carrying you, Keira.
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Thank you for sharing your story on the radio today. My dad has early onset Alzheimer’s and much of what you shared struck a chord. Thank you for being brave enough to share the struggle and God’s faithfulness. It does change everything, but it is so encouraging to share with others going through trials and knowing God is bigger than it all.
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Thanks for being on the radio today.
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Thank you, Maxine. It’s mostly Mary 🙂
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Hi Bill, thanks for stopping by my site, that was an encouraging surprise. Thank you for your ministry of encouragement on your site. I read only a few and really appreciate your faith in Christ who truly holds our future.
“For we know that if our earthly house of this tabernacle were dissolved, we have a building of God, an house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens” (2 Corinthians 5:1).
I’m going to follow your site and hope to see more from you soon.
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Thank you for stopping by and for your comments, Charles.
I really take comfort in that verse, thanks for posting that.
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I’m hanging in there. I had a very special moment in which I fell in Love with my wife all over again. (Not that I ever lost it). But I felt that nervous feeling, and just fell closer to her. With our busy schedules I’m so blessed I’ve been able to have that feeling all over again. I often read your blogs, just as a reminder of God and his Mercy and Grace.
I love you man. And tell your bride I said hello.
Jarvon
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That’s such a great testimony, Jarvon. With you and your wife both being busy doctors, Mary and I were wondering how you even find time for one another. I know you make time with her and your kids a priority. You’re a good man.
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How are you Bill? This is Jarvon your former physical therapist.
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Hello, Jarvon. It’s great and strange to hear from you – Mary and I were just talking about you the other day.
We’re doing well, how are you?
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Bill, Thank you, again, for your ministry through this blog site, and for your inspiring example of courage and faith through your everyday life. Bless you!
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Thank you, my friend.
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Amazing praise God!
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Thank you.
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I wanted to write on hope, a difficult subject, and came across your blog and your story of hope. I stand amazed at your courage and unshakable hope. I did write the post, and mentioned you in it too. I am going to refer to your blog for hope quotes from time to time – they are soo encouraging. Blessings for you today, and hope for tomorrow.
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Thank you, Carol, for your encouraging comments and for mentioning my blog in your post.
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Ahhh Bill!
Thank you for the follow. If you had not found me, I very well might not have stumbled upon your inspiring blog! Thank you so much for sharing your journey with us. I look forward to reading more of your thoughts and insights! I am a student of God’s Word and absolutely love seeing how God’s beautiful character manifests itself through others and reveals more about Him and who we are in Him. What a great and mighty God we have! Blessings to you and your precious family!
Karyn (saturatedinseattle.wordpress.com)
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Bless you and your family and for your sharing of your wisdom. Also want to thank you for reading my blog. Hope you will check in some more as I write about using our faith to go from feeling stressed to blessed while traversing medical adversity.
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Thank you for your comments, Loretta. Thank you also for following my blog.
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You sharing is so encouraging. It was a miracle that you survived. My neighbor last for one year. It was so hard at the end that she could only use eye movement to express her needs. When I had my cancer, it was hope that sustained me and made me survive.
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Thank you for your comments. The survival rates of ALS vary, the average is about four years. When it begins in the breathing muscles, probably like your neighbor, the survival rate is not good.
Yes, communication with someone who can’t speak and is paralyzed, is really frustrating for both the patient and the caregiver.
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GOD Bless You Bill and Your Wonderful Family!!
Love Always and Shalom ( Peace )!!
Kristi Ann
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Thank you, Kristi.
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Thank you for stopping by and following my blog I have followed in return. Your post that I have read are so spiritually uplifting giving people the courage they need to keep on living.
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Thank you so much for your encouraging message.
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Thank you for choosing to follow my blog. May you continue to draw closer to Jesus as He makes you more like Him and blesses your blog, family and life!
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Thank you, Tom.
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I found your blog because someone who follows mine, follows yours. So glad to now follow yours. Just the little I’ve read resonates with me, deeply. I was diagnosed with MG at age 15 so began young, learning all those lessons one learns in trials. Breast cancer at age 57 started me blogging, thanks to my husband. That led to writing a book, because people kept asking when I was going to so others could be encouraged. Book is now at the publisher. God is amazing. In my book I quote Amy Carmichael who said that what God gives us is not just for us, but is meant to share with others. Bill, thanks for sharing what God has been teaching you. We all need to hear it. And love to your wife and family who are caring for you. We thank God for the loved ones in our lives. Bless you all.
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Thank you, Jacqueline. I’m sure that you have much to share after the trials you’ve been through. I’m proud of you for writing a book – that’s awesome! I really like the quote you cited. We must encourage others, especially those going through trials.
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Outstanding! Think of all the good you have done, all the people you inspired and all the lives you have positively changed.
Excellent – you made a gift of yourself, just a Christ did.
God bless,
Bob
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Thank you so much for your encouragement, Bob.
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Keep witnessing. It is so very important – there are many lost sheep.
Bob
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I agree with you, Bob. Thanks.
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You are always welcome.
B.
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Inspiring. Uncannily your unshakeable hope is in some way an extension of a meditation I read today by Anthony de Mello.
In Meditation 2 of ‘A Call to Love’ – he reflects that all our unhappiness is due to the programmes we carry in our brain that tells us that we need health, wealth, fame even family (Luke 14.26) to be happy.
Yours words spoke to me that all we need is ‘Unshakeable Hope’.
Thank you for that … blessings.
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Thank you, Rose. I agree completely with your devotional.
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Blessings, Bill. In my internet spiritual wonderings, the Lord led me to you so that I could share this with a former teaching colleague who is working his way with aggressive cancer. And you encourage me, 81, 3 time cancer survivor living on trust beyond knowing and waiting on God’s loving desires for me to be and accomplish. In union of hope and prayer. Julie
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Thank you very much for your comments, Julie. You’ve beaten cancer three times? Awesome! You are one tough lady! Thank you for stopping by.
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Hi Bill, I’m sad to know you have ALS but I’m blessed by your testimony. I’m sick also, and I can relate to so many things in this post that I can’t address them all but I share not wanting to be defined by my disease. No disease can shake your hope or destroy my joy. How blessed we are to belong to Jesus.
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Thank you for your faith-filled comments, Pam. I’m so sorry you’re sick. As you said, we cannot allow anything to take away our hope and joy.
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Jesus made sure that nothing can!:0)You are in my prayers.
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Thank you, Pam.
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What an interesting post. Only God can change situation. I like your concluding words in Romans 5 : 3 – 5. Thanks so much for stopping by at my blog and for the like. God’s blessings to you in the name of Jesus Christ. Looking forward to more of your visit while I frequent yours as well.
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Thank you for stopping by and for your encouraging comments.
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I’m so thankful I finally took time to sit my busy butt down and read more on your blog. You are inspirational and love your spirit. You said something profound that I needed to share with my facebook friends and family as my own family walks through ALS, as you stated to not allow it to define who you are. “To do so is to give that disease or challenge more credit than it deserves and it’s the first step on the dead-end road of hopelessness.”
Thank you Bill, I am eagerly excited to share your message of hope with my family.
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Thank you very much. As unfortunately you know all to well, ALS is a huge challenge, not just for the victim, but for the whole family. Caregivers like my wife and your mom are angels sent from God. We must not lose hope.
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Truly are. It’s so hard on everybody, but can’t imagine what you or dad is feeling and thinking. I shared your post on facebook and quoted about not allowing any disease define you. Perhaps it was too soon for my family for me to share that mindset. But it’s true. Nothing should define us, no disease, no success, no failure…. it really goes deeper than that. Thankful your refreshing attitude as you battle and live with such a disease, but continue speaking hope.
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Yes, Bailey, I think it is challenging not to allow a disease like ALS, a disease that takes so much time and effort 24/7, to define you. But your dad and I are still the same people we were before ALS, it’s just our body that has changed. I just meant that if we let our physical state or our circumstances to define us, we’re setting ourselves up for great disappointment.
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Wow, you continue to amaze me. What a blessing you have been in my life. God only knows the words I want to express. Just know that I’m inspired by you and will pass this along!
God Bless you!
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Thank you so much, my new friend. You’ve been a blessing to us also.
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Bill I will miss you. You amaze me evertime I think about you quality of mindset and faith!
Keep on, keeping on.
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Thank you, my friend. You are the best Physical Therapist! Mary’s been following your instructions 🙂
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Hi bill, I’m subscribed to your blog through my wordpress account but havent been on wordpress in a long time. Your blog posts come in to my email.
I was greatly encouraged through your post. Our family is packing up and moving this weekend away from the town I was born and raised in for 23 years. I’ve had an anxiety disorder since I was 13 and sometimes it feels just like a disease…a crippling of the mind. But the more I surrender to Jesus Christ the more His word brings relief to my heart…Through all these changes lately I’ve been feeling so overwhelmed with anxiety and not knowing where to go next when we move. Your story of faith through trials was right on time…your determination inspires me to stay hopeful as I continue seeking God and learning to trust
him more and more. Thank you. God bless you and your family
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Thank you, Heather. I’m sorry you’re struggling with anxiety problems; I know that can be crippling. I’m so glad you’re surrendering to Jesus. I hope and pray that the move and all the changes work out for the good for you.
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I love this blogging world. Somehow you stumbled upon my blog and I got to “meet” you though yours. Your story is amazing. I love the title of your blog. There are so many things in this life that can shake us. You have chosen to set your feet on The Rock. I look forward to reading more.
Be Blessed…
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Thank you for your comments, Cheryl.
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Thanks for checking out my blog, Bill! I just love how God weaves people into our journeys – blessings to you and your family my new cyber friend!
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Thank you, Celeta.
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Thanks for the following Bill, and thanks for sharing your life with us, May God Bless you richly!!! >////>
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Thank you for reading and following my blog.
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Only a hero understands the true depth behind an Unshakable Hope…I judge you are one. Hugsnblessings to you my new faith-filled friend.
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Thank you, Dawn. I don’t think I have unshakable hope, but it’s growing stronger.
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You are a man of faith and courage. God bless you.
I’m glad I discovered your blog.
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Thank you for checking out my blog, Kate.
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Hello! Thank you for liking my post- it led me to your wonderful blog. Be encouraged, you are an inspiration and blessing! God bless you and your family
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Thank you very much, Mia-Bella.
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Dear Bill, you “liked” one of my posts the other day and while I often do not have the time to investigate many other blogs, your blog title intrigued me and so I decided to check out your site. I am always so inspired, excited and encouraged to find others who are passionately, relentlessly and unashamedly pursuing a life in and for Christ. Your story amazes and thrills me as I am sure it does many others. No doubt this is not how you would have chosen to serve the Lord but there is also no doubt of the power in your life and story to touch others not because you have an illness, devastating as that unarguably is but rather because in the trial and cross you have been given to carry you have believed Jesus when He said “take my yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and my burden is light.” Matthew 11:29,30
Thank you for choosing to press into the Lord and for sharing your journey. I have decided I want to follow your blog posts as I know I can only be encouraged to come up higher in Christ and that is my heart’s desire. I have re-blogged your “about Bill” because I hope others will become connected with your ministry of unshakeable hope.
God bless you.
Julie
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Thank you very much for your encouraging comments, Julie.
You are so right about me not picturing myself serving God this way. Maybe I’m proof that He can use anyone 🙂
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At the risk of sounding cliche Bill, may I say I believe anyone who follows the Lord & stays the course, persevering to the end, though they may stumble & fall, each one is “proof” that God can use anyone. From the Old Testament through to today, we see examples of God’s purpose & glory triumphing in the middle of our biggest messes & failures. His glory shines all the brighter next to our tarnished righteousness. Of course, some have much more dramatic stories & circumstances, such as yourself. Others will stand back & be in awe at the power that God pours through you but i don’t believe the power of God flows through a person to that degree without great sacrifice or challenge. Many would not envy God’s power in your life to the extent that they would be willing to accept the cost you are paying. But God has called you for Himself, He will not share His glory with another & since when we are broken there is no hope of trying to take the credit for ourselves, God then has us positioned magnificently for His purposes.
Wow. Well, i am not sure what has possessed me to write you a mini-sermon. I can only omagine these are truths you know far better than I. I look forward to learning & sharing together; these blogs are a great connector!
Blessings ..,
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Thank you, Julie.
I really liked your mini sermon 🙂
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I read your story on “God’s Report”. I have ALS. I was diagnosed 6 months ago. It started with my speech, swallowing then walking. I have told God that, his will is my will. That I will never lose my faith no matter how painful or what body part atrophies. I do get sad when I think about what is happening to me but I gave my life to Jesus Christ 8/18/2013. Babtized 6/2014. I know that God is walking ahead of me through this storm and that Jesus gives me strength. I am grateful for everything and every day God allows me to live. God Bless you and your family. Thank you for your post on God’s Report. Miki Rutter
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God bless you, Miki.
You have a great faith-filled attitude.
Losing the use of your limbs and ability to eat is so difficult, but, as I know you’re discovering, losing your ability to speak is the most difficult aspect of this horrible disease.
You’re in my prayers, my new friend.
Feel free to email me at Unshakablehope@gmail.com
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Thank you Bill. My ALS is genetic which is only 10 percent of all the people that have this disease. I look at it this way. Jesus was beaten with hooks attached to whips, He had to carry a wooden cross for miles while being whipped if he wasn’t moving fast enough or when he fell from the weight of the cross, the romans taunted him, spit on him, he was nailed to a cross, one nail hammered into each hand and one nail hammered into his feet, one foot over the other. And he was sinless. So why shouldn’t I suffer? Jesus Christ suffered more than anyone. I want to give GOD all the glory not the enemy so I will walk this walk with GOD walking ahead of me. I have seen amazing things that GOD has done on this journey and I will keep my eyes on Jesus. God Bless you and thank you for having a place where people can talk to other people in the same situation.
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Wow, Miki, that’s really powerful!
I basically came to a very similar conclusion shortly after being diagnosed. For followers of Christ, even if we live to be 100, this life is nothing compared to eternity.
“For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory that is to be revealed to us.” (Romans 8:18)
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This is beautiful! Thanks for sharing. I can relate in so many ways, but not all. I too am learning (finally) that God really means it when He says that He will use ALL things for good for those who love Him and are called according to His purposes. God bless you and may He fill you and your family with unspeakable joy! Debbie.
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Thank you, Debbie. That is one of the toughest lessons to learn, but it’s so true.
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Thank you for liking my blog http://www.wildflowermom.com. And thank you for sharing your faith to encourage so many who need it as they struggle through painful trials. God bless you!
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Thank you, Stacy.
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Bill, I just wanted to stop by to wish you and your family a merry Christmas. I hope you are doing well. I continue to enjoy your posts as they are rich with insight, comfort and God’s truths. You are being used mightily by the Lord. Please hang in there!
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Thank you, Kim. Happy New Year!
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Bill, you wrote that you want to “help others avoid some of the detrimental (hope-stealing) mistakes I’ve made.” Hope-stealing or hope giving? That is the choice, isn’t it? I’m so glad you choose hope and choose to share yours with others, including me. My best regards to you and your family.
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Thank you, Angie. You are so right about hope being a choice; in the difficult times, we either move toward God (the only solid foundation of hope) or we move away from Him and begin our dark hopeless journey. I started this blog to help people choose the former.
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Bill, you sound like a perfect example of broken wings that soar. God’s supernatural is locked up in understanding that very thing. You are affecting a lot of people.
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Thank you for your encouraging words.
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Thank you for sharing your story! I look forward to reading through your blog and learning from you. God bless you and your family!
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Thank you, Lauren. God bless you and yours.
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Thanks for stopping by my blog Bill. Your testimony is inspiring. You are doing a wonderful thing here. Keep it up. You will be in my prayers.
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Thank you very much, Kelly. I greatly appreciate your prayers.
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Bill thank you for finding my blog. I am absolutely blown away by your story here. I am so inspired by the title of your blog. Unshakeable is such the right word … how many things, trials and health issues, try to shake our hope in God’s faithfulness. I am blessed by your writing and the eternal hope that you are spreading to others. Though I wish you did not have to go through what you are going through. 😦 Thank you for your courage. What a wonderful family you have too!
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Thank you very much, Kim. As you unfortunately know from fighting your own health battles, it’s God’s grace that sustains us. God bless you.
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Thank you for visiting my blog because that led me to your blog! I am inspired by your strength and your heart for GOD inspite of your trials! My heart and my prayers are with you and your family! Infinite blessings to you! 🙂
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Thank you so much, Tai. Blessing to you also – on everything except your football team – my daughter and her husband went to A&M 🙂
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You’re very welcome! And thank you so much! 🙂 … LOL! You guys need to roll with the tide! We’re definitely taking it all this year and remember that you heard it here first! 😉
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You might be right, Tai, they’re a really good team.
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I’m so glad you agree, Bill! Roll Tide! 😉
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Thanks for the follow, your story is amazing and brought me to tears. What a beautiful testimony, I am so looking forward to following your blog!
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Thank you so much, Melissa.
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You are truly an inspiration Bill, I needed to read your words today.
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Thank you, Becki.
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What a powerful blog you have here, Bill. Sharing what you’ve learned as you go through your trials makes such a difference in our lives. Thank you for your unshakable hope, and may God continue to bless you and your loved ones. Thank you again for the hope and perspective you pass onto others.
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Thank you very much, Ashley.
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Dear Bill,
Thank you for this blog! My sister Diane would have loved finding you out there. She died in 2006 after 10 years of living with ALS. Like you, she had deep faith, joy, a great sense of humor and an inquiring mind. Also lots of friends and a supportive family. I look forward to following your journey–though I can see I also have a lot of catching up to do! Thanks for following my blog and leaving a like on my last Diane post.
Elouise
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Thank you, Elouise. Diane sounds like she was a wonderful sister; I wish I would have known her.
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May The Lord strengthens you, Bill, and thank you for the visit, likes and follow of my poetry blog 🙂
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Thank you, Yoshiko.
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Welcome, Bill 🙂
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I just want to thank you for your continued encouragement on my writing. I know life in general is hard. But your godly mindset and attitude of hope–because God’s hope doesn’t disappoint–is so refreshing and genuine. Your story is a gift to those who encounter it. A bright spot of perspective. I’m grateful for your heart and your perseverance. I admire you and your family for walking this path well.
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Thank you, Dayle. You are so right – (God’s) “hope does not disappoint.”
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Thank you, Bill, for your unshakable hope. It’s in our weakness that we see the power of God. Thank you for allowing His light to shine through you. God set your path before the foundation of the world, and He is faithful to complete His poem in you. I’m praying for you and your family. Karen
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Thank you so much, Karen, for your comments and for your prayers.
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Thank you for the like. You are an inspiration to me. Thanks for encouraging me. I had a tough day yesterday and I got on the computer right now and saw your blog. Even though I don’t have time to read much now, you have been an angel to me. God Bless you! Meghan
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Thank you so much, Meghan. I’m sorry you were having a bad day, but so thankful that something I wrote played a part in lifting your spirit. God bless you.
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What a wonderful testimony Bill. Thank you for sharing it. Real life not easy but His grace makes a way.
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Amen. Thank you, Cam.
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Saying a prayer for you today!
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Thank you, Cam!
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Hi Bill! I just wanted to say thank you for visiting my blog today. It brought me back to yours and I re-read your last April post and this About page again. Tonight in my bible study we were discussing your very sentiments about challenges and how they lead to resetting our priorities and sculpting our character – to be more like Jesus. Thank you for your encouragement and for being a bright light in this dark world. Elena
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Thank you, Elana. Life’s trials and tribulations definitely do cause us to reset our priorities.
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Praise God Almighty for your life and testimony!! All praise to the King!!! Keep up the great work for Christ, Bill! I have been reading lots about Heaven lately Bill and can’t wait to get there! …we will all (who accept Christ) be in glorious new bodies experiencing the unimaginable! If I never meet you in this life, I will in the next!! Glory to God!
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Thank you, Nancy. I too am looking forward to having a new body in heaven; no more wheelchairs, no more pain!
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Bill,
Thanks for visiting and following my blog. I see God at work here – I desperately needed to hear your story and have a lot to learn from your experiences. I’m so glad God led you to me. Thank God for you 🙂 God bless you and your family 🙂
Jennifer – I Give God All The Glory
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Thank you so much for your words of encouragement, Jennifer. God bless and happy Easter.
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🙂
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Wow. I just happened upon your blog and I am so impressed. My reblog is not working but I am going to write just a short promo for your blog on my blog today. You can find it at http://www.spotublog.com. I hope that is okay with you. I feel as if I would be cheating my audience if I kept the treasure of your blog to myself.
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Dearest Bill,
Thanks you for visiting my blog. I am so happy you did as it brought me right back to yours! Your words paint a perfect picture of what it takes to process, accept and persevere despite trials knowing and trusting He is right with you every step of the way. Your blog is such a ministry to many, no doubt, and that now includes me. Blessings to you and your family!
Catherine
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Thank you very much, Catherine. Blessings to you and yours also.
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Dear Bill, spotted a like and popped back to have a look. I guess it is easy to get wrapped up in the “poor chap” syndrome and ooze sympathy and platitudes in your direction. I know they whizzed through my mind as I was reading your about and ALS and recent pages. And yet that seems to make you the victim. Reading your words I see no victim. I see a family coping as best they can with something uninvited and unwelcome – but accepted. And I also guess you have come into contact with others you regard with the same humility and affection.
So, dear Bill, for finding my words – a big thank you. And for letting me find your words – an even bigger thank you. I have always thought that the lord is at work in reaching out and connecting us all together. For what reason – I have no idea. Other than to travel these blogs together and figure it out as we go along.
🙂
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Paul, thank you so much for reading my posts and for your encouraging words.
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May God bless you and your family, Bill. The “trials” in my life are nothing compared to what you are living with. I will keep you in my prayers. Thank you for visiting my blog so that I was lucky enough to have discovered you. Blessings, my new friend.
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Thank you for your encouraging words and for your prayers, Kim.
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Hey I really like your blog so I have nominated you for the versatile blogger award! 🙂 http://saxophonechick.wordpress.com/?p=42&preview=true
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Thank you very much for the nomination!
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Great blog Bill. Your posts are very good indeed. After I had read 1 post, I just had to click the Follow button!
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Thank you very much, Tom. I appreciate the follow too!
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You’re very welcome! You deserve every follow you get.
Enjoy Blogging!
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Thanks!
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Bill, thank you for stopping by to read and like my blog post. Thank you for sharing your story and giving hope to all who read your blog. I thank our Lord Jesus Christ that out of His abundance grace and love you face each new day with the hope that is yours through Him! I’m also praying for healing here on earth as it is in heaven!!
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Thank you very much for your hope-filled words, Terese!
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Bill, I’m honored that you visited and became a follower of my blog “Reflections From the Heart.” It’s so refreshing to me in seeing more men joining the community! 🙂
You sir, are an inspiration! God bless you and your family – in ways you haven’t even thought of. I look forward to reading more.
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Your testimony is a blessing. I am so happy that you stumbled upon my blog and liked my post Stand Firm. May God continue to bless you.
Paula
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Thank you very much, Paula.
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you know what made me Liked your “about me” or about you? is the fact that despite trials, or the condition you are facing right now—you still know how to see God or look up to God and claim that He is God!—over this! 😀
i’m blessed finding your blog, and knowing someone like you—you’re one among the few 😀
p.s.
God bless you and your family… 😀
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Thank you very much for your encouraging words.
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Thanks for stopping by my blog; I’m glad I found yours!
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Thank you, Kirsten.
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I’m glad I found this blog….I will be back to read more. My 45 yr old husband was diagnosed last week with ALS. We have two young boys. I was just on the internet searching for some HOPE. God Bless!
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I am so sorry about your husband being diagnosed, Bonnie! Please email me with any questions you might have. God bless you.
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I found your blog through a comment you made on Dave Knickerbocker’s blog- Pasture-ized. I’ve read a few of your posts and look forward to reading many more! I was able to figure out by reading that we are about the same age, were married the same year and both have 2 children the same ages (except both mine were sons)! I also had to giggle when I saw the family picture above because my husband had the EXACT same sweater from the eighties you are wearing (in fact, I think he STILL has it)! And by the way, you have a beautiful family.
I believe there’s a reason for everything and it’s funny how God leads us to certain blogs. I am so sorry for your struggles with ALS but am grateful you are able to share your story. You are an inspiration and I look forward to reading more of your blog. Sure glad I found it.
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Thank you so much for your comments, Gail. I probably still have that “stylish” sweater somewhere – Goodwill would probably reject it:-)
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I just want to say that I admire you, and I hope and pray that when trials come to my life I’ll be able to face them with the same courage and strength. God bless you and your family, I’m sure you are an example and inspiration to many.
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Thank you very much for your encouraging words, Emma. If we rely on God in our trials, His grace gives us the courage and strength to cope.
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Hi! Thank-you for following my blog. I’m looking forward to reading through yours because there seems to be a lot here that I would enjoy. I write my blog for a similar reason to you – to share my lessons (and of course I have other reasons). I like your outlook on life, keep up the good work 🙂
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Thank you very much, Emily.
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An amazing lesson for survival when the chips point down and all is bleak.
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Amen, Sheri. Thanks be to a compassionate GOD.
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My story is quite similar and I can totally relate. I pray the Lord keep you and bless you and your family, spiritually and financially as well. I will definitely be following you. God bless.
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Thank you so much, Chris.
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Absolutely my pleasure.
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Thank you for following. Though your story of suffering is different from mine, the God we serve is the same. I look forward to more posts from you.
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Amen, Sarah!
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Thanks for such an inspiring testimony.
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Thank you.
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Wow….what a testimony! There is a crown for our suffering…it says in Revelations. But for right now….I thank God for all the grace He has given you! May the Lord continue to bless you with that grace every second of your life. May the peace of God cover you on those days….(you know what days I’m talking about) and keep you encouraged and strong in your spiritman. May the Lord take care of your family and bless and keep them. In Jesus name…amen.
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Thank you so much for your inspiring message, Tanya.
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Awesome testimony Bill! Only our God brings beauty out of ashes. Outstanding insight that the Lord has given you regarding trials. So much of what you wrote resonates with me. In loosing my newborn son in March, I too have seen how God sustains us in the crucible of our trials. Keep sharing. Many will find strength to continue their race.
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Thank you very much, Monique. I am so sorry for your horrible loss, but so glad to hear that God is comforting you in your grief.
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Thank you so much for reminding me that there is an “unshakable hope” always in God, Bill. The last couple of months felt like a whirlwind for me. My uncle got sick for months (thank God, he’s much much better now), and then my 87 year-old grandpa is sick right now and it’s really breaking my heart to see him suffer because I get to take care of him sometimes. And then my mom has been diagnosed with liver cirrhosis, I don’t know what stage, but it worries me a lot, too. All these happened in unexpected succession. I told God that these events are tearing me apart inside, but I am also doing my best to remind myself that “God is bigger than my problems.”
Thank you so much for sharing your story, Bill. You are truly an inspiration. God bless you.
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I am so sorry for all of these health challenges coming against your family, Irene. In Christ, I really believe that, even in the worst situations, there is always hope. I recently heard a preacher say: “If you are in Christ, so is your situation.” I love that quote!
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Hi Bill, how are things? I just wanted to let you know that I’ve nominated you for the Inner Peace Award. You don’t have to do anything with it, no work required, but it’s just my way of saying ‘thanks’. God bless you 🙂 http://sherrimatthewsblog.com/2013/08/07/inner-peace-award/
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Thank you so much, Sherri!
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You are a great encouragement Bill. I pray that as people read your blog, despite what they are going through, they will develop that kind of hope – unshakable hope in an unshakable God. It is rare to find people with such great faith and I trust that through your posts on this blog God will raise a people of faith; a people who will please Him.
I am pretty sure that the enemy had intended your affliction for evil but God is turning it around every day for His glory. May He grant you all your heart’s desires. May His good will be done to you and through you as you continue to hear His voice. Oh Unshakable God, may His name be praised! In this Unshakable God, do we trust!
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Thank you so much, Dee, for your faith-filled encouraging message!
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Hello – thank you for stopping by my blog and for the like. Oh how what you write about unshakeable hope resonates with me. I think we are speaking the same language, I just chose the word “unconditional” rather than “unshakeable” to describe my blog.
My prayer for you and your family is for Our Heavenly Father who makes the impossible, possible (Mark 10:27) to RESTORE what has been plundered (Is 42:22) from you and your family. I pray that the same power that raised Jesus from the dead would give life to every cell in your mortal body (Rom 8:11) all because of who Jesus is and what Jesus has done. AMEN.
Well done you to choose to spread hope!
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Thank you, Diane – for your comments and the awesome prayer.
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Great! Post! in reading it I remembered one of my favorite verse: Job 23:10 “But he knoweth the way that I take: when he hath tried me, I shall come forth as gold.”
Thank you so much for counting my blog worthy of follow. 🙂 God Bless..
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Hi Bill,
Thanks for the visit…I am definitely captivated by your story.
I was recently watching a clip on Joyce Meyer about this guy who was born with no hands and no legs…he said something that will stick with me, I believe, forever. He said once he accepted Christ and what he was going through, all he wanted was to “win with the hand he was dealt”….he didn’t ask God to trade in the cards; in truth he was winning. You, my brother are winning 🙂
I admire you for your attitude…unshakeable hope in an Unshakeable God 🙂
Keep shining
JC
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Thank you for your encouragement, JC. The man with no arms or legs is named Nick Vujicic (http://www.lifewithoutlimbs.org/about-nick/bio/); he is a great encourager!
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Nick Vujicic is amazing – no one who sees and hears him could doubt God or complain as much about their own little problems. Nick is married and I believe they are expecting a baby. Joni Erickson Tada is another shining beacon of hope – an example of God’s ability to use what the world sees as broken. The power of His Spirit at work in one surrendered life. Bless you Bill for being such an encourager too.
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Thank you, Vera.
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Hi there,
Thank you for following my blog. I am so honored. Just looking some stuff of yours. You have such a great stuff 🙂 will spend my time to exploring more your post. Blessing 🙂
Regards,
Karina
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Thank you very much, Karina.
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You are welcome:)
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Thanks for visiting and liking my post. My husband also wrote a story about us, that you might enjoy. It is here : http://tweedandbriar.wordpress.com/2013/07/13/the-fate-of-my-first-acubra/
My uncle and his cousin both had ALS. Both have passed away. But I am somewhat familiar with the disease. What a blessing that the Lord has given you the time He has!
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Thank you, Karen. It’s terrible that ALS has invaded your family too. I am thankful that the Lord has given me almost 17 years.
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Bill,
I regret not reading your story earlier. You are a hero of the faith! One of my Dad’s closest friends lost his battle with ALS several years ago, and ever since, it has been close to my heart.
Thank you for eloquently and honestly sharing your story, trials and all.
I praise God for your faith and your desire to share it with the world.
I look forward to reading more often!
Be well,
Steve
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Thank you so much for your encouraging words, Steve.
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Bill, thanks for dropping by my blog. I hope you met a kindred spirit. I loved your article on “so many depressed Christians.” I could not agree more. The Savior is our greatest friend and ally, but he is ultimately still our Savior…the best thing for which we could ever hope…depressed or other wise.
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Thank you very much, Ricki. I agree completely!
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Hello Bill! Thanks for stopping by StephanieHuesler.com. You might also like another blog I write, http://www.candlequill.wordpress.com...
Glad to meet you! I have two neighbours with ALS, and I can say that only with God in our lives does any of it make sense, and even when it doesn’t make sense in the moment, we can rest in his strength. I was born with Marfan’s, and have learned to live with the limitations on a daily basis; God’s mercies are new every morning, and I’m grateful for it!!
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Thank you for your comments, Stephanie. That’s strange that you have two neighbors with ALS; it’s not very common. But it’s also strange that my next-door neighbor was diagnosed with ALS two years before me.
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Our neighbours moved into our building complex because these buildings are wheelchair-accessible, which is not yet very common here in Switzerland (Europe in general). You’re right, it’s not very common here either….
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Oh, that makes more sense, Stephanie. My wife and I have dreamed of vacationing in Switzerland since before being married 28 years ago. Unfortunately ALS has made even leaving home virtually impossible.
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I am eternally thankful for you and others like you who, not only stand firm in your faith under trials, but also encourage others as you do. Thanks for stopping by wastelandtograceland…
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Thank you very much, Amy.
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Bill,
Thank you for your strong words of encouragement for the Body of Christ. I pray this day finds you well as can be in your circumstances and that your wife, daughters and you are holding up well.
I commend you for your strength and for taking your trial and message to the world.
What a blessing and a wonder in these last days that we can be in our homes typing on a key board and we can send the message of the Great News of a lasting, ‘unshakeable hope’ to a world that is in need.
I think maybe Paul might be a little bit envious; that is if he was capable of envy in his glorified state in heaven today.
I had a ‘trial’ dumped upon my family and I last November. the church that I was the children’s pastor at for 16 plus years kind of threw me into the street. It was stunning and has put our family in a tough spot to say the least.
It was an ugly situation that had nothing to do with ministry. The details of the story are a sad commentary on the state of church leadership and their broken compass in regards to direction for churches. Many churches have lost their way and yet don’t even know they are lost.
If the tithe box is still full then everything must be good right?
I have been toiling over how and when or if I should ever say anything in the blog world about the trial.
I believe there is a lot within the story that can help bring help for others who have been ‘burned’ by selfish and misguided church leadership.
Not just for church staff but for many people who attend churches and get disillusioned at the ‘plastic’ Christianity that is displayed in many churches.
I don’t want to draw attention to my self, and I don’t want to be seen as one attacking the church but I do strongly feel that the leadership of the churches of today need to be called out.
In these last days the church leaders are often too big on themselves, have lost sight and touch with the cares of the people and their mission has become to keep the tithe flowing in and people filling the pews.
I also want to continue having a strong impact in children’s ministry in other churches, but it wouldn’t look good to be hitting leadership hard and expect to be welcomed into churches to help with their children’s ministry.
For me there is still a severance (keep quiet) package that is at risk if I say much, but that runs out soon.
I have been preaching to children for close to 35 years. I now get to live out the faith that I have preached. As I was again just speaking to my wife about this yesterday. Now I get to show others that my faith in God is real and not just plastic. Not a faith that God will fill my magic wallet, but that my faith is strong like that of Job; “though he slay me, yet will I trust him.”
I would appreciate your prayers on how and when or if to start sharing a message that helps to draw the attention of the true church back to the Lord as the days grow darker and the hope of others are greatly shaken when trying to trust in plastic leaders who don’t have much faith themselves.
thanks,
I pray the Lord gives your family strength and direction for each day
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Thank you for your comments, Doug.
I think if you are in the ministry for a long period of time or even attend church for a number of years, you will be hurt by church leaders or fellow churchgoers. Knowingly or not, the chances are that you and I have offended people at church too. I suppose it’s my former (pre-Christian) cynicism that told me never to expect too much from people; even the best Christians are fallible people. I don’t view their failings or my own failings as hypocrisy like I did before becoming a follower of Christ; it’s just the “old man” flaring-up. As I said in my post about forgiveness, when I was taken advantage of (financially) by a “Christian brother,” the only way to resolve my hurt and bitterness was to forgive the person and pray for God to bless them. Try this if you haven’t already done so.
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Hi Bill,
Good reminder of course about forgiveness.
It is at the core of the Gospel for us. The Lord forgave our debt to him which was great so we are to forgive others their smaller debts.
I understand we are all just broken pots and failed instruments who as you say have offended others.
I have been a leader so yes of course I have offended and stumbled people.
I think what we do in those moments can help us lead people closer to Christ or lead people further away.
I am never surprised at selfish man being selfish to one another. I’ve seen it too many times.
My dilemma is whether there would be value in encouraging the body of Christ and also non-believers not to be distracted by the faulty leaders.
I am thinking from the perspective of a shepherd and a teacher.
Sometimes the right thing to do is to point out error and to point to the wisdom of the Word and help people understand truth. We often are too infatuated by our leaders and hold them in too high of a regard.
As the Lord confronted the leaders of his day, we still today have the blind leading the blind.
I’m concerned about those who have their eyes on failed leaders and their faith is shaken and they turn from Christ when something goes bad at church.
Bad leaders or good leaders will all give an account to the Lord.
But. What of the people who are following them? Those are the ones Jesus wanted Peter to be concerned about when he told him to feed his sheep and feed his lambs.
By instinct Peter looked at John and said, ‘What about him?”
Jesus told him not to be concerned about what others do, you just feed my sheep.
It certainly would be my preference not to say anything. I wonder though if has been given to me to do so. Not so I can drive a nail or spike into anyone or render a just reward. God wouldn’t honor such a thing. I am aware of that.
I just took a chance to think out loud with you. I wondered what you might think.
The trial that was chosen for our family was for a reason and I don’t believe it was just so that I could learn to forgive a couple of people; though that lesson is something we can never get enough of. I think there is a much bigger reason for it though I don’t pretend to know what at this point.
I want to have a hand in bringing strength to the church not to tear part of it down. The wheat and the tares parable is a great example of that lesson.
Thanks Bill for your thoughts and great example to many.
Doug
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I can appreciate your dilemma, Doug. I don’t know what I would do if faced with a similar situation; I don’t think anyone can say because only you know your motives for speaking out or silent. The problem in these situations is that even if your motives for exposing the wrongs are good, you will look like your seeking revenge if you speak out alone. Church-splits can begin from situations like this so please be very careful and prayerful.
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Bill…thank you so much for coming by our WMF blog and liking our post today! I just read about you and your blog and I am so glad God led you to write this. You have so much to share and your faith is so strong. Thanks so much and God bless you and your family. As God reminds me of you I will pray!
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Thank you very much for your encouraging words and for your prayers.
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Bill your story and blog are both so very inspirational, thank you for sharing. God Bless you and your family.
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Thank you, Mark.
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Hi again Bill. I just wanted to let you know that I would like you to be part of my little ‘cyber’ family and as such I have nominated you for The WordPress Family Award! Please don’t worry about having to do anything about it, I just wanted to say a huge thank you to you for always taking the time to visit and like my posts and for staying connected. I really appreciate it and you continue to be a huge inspiration to me. God Bless you Bill, your ministry gives me great strength in these somewhat dark days which are afflicting me at the moment. Here’s the link anyway, but just wanted to share the love and the smiles 🙂 http://sherrimatthewsblog.com/2013/07/03/back-to-you-the-wordpress-family-award/
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Thank you very much, Sherri!
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Hi Bill,
I can’t begin to describe how refreshing it has been to read through your blog this morning.
Although I’m only 17, I’ve seen and experienced trials that have shaped who I am and who my family is today, and I’m so grateful to have the support of my church and an incredible God.
Your latest post “Why me” was exactly what I needed. I feel like God placed this morning in my life for a special reason…thank you.
Recently, at my youth group, I gave a message on “a Confident Hope”, and since then, I’ve viewed the word and it’s meaning so differently. No longer does it mean something flimsy or uncertain, but confident and steadfast. I have hope in God, because he’s the only one strong enough and reliable enough to have everything under control.
Sorry for the ramble! I just had to let you know how wonderful it was to meet your blog 🙂
Many blessings,
Alice
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Thank you so much for your comments, Alice; you have a lot of wisdom for your age! I love what you said – “I have hope in God, because he’s the only one strong enough and reliable enough to have everything under control.”
Amen! Most people, including me, don’t figure that out until they’re much older – after many years of putting hopes in things, people and themselves. You’re off to a great start in life!
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Thank you for stopping by earlier.
Thankyou for writing on this topic … It will (as I am sure it has) impact many many lives.
Blessings to you and your family!
God is Good!
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Thank you. We seem to have a similar mission – proclaiming the goodness of God!
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What encouragement it is to read your story being refreshed with the reminder that God will always be with us and help us through the hardships life may throw at us. May God Bless you and your family!!
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Amen, Johanna – “He will never leave us…”
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Thank you Bill, for your willingness to share your journey. God is always good, and I’m thankful you have felt His peace in the storms.
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Thank you, Ruth.
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Please accept this award – http://wingedprisms.com/2013/06/14/rose-of-kindness-award/
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Thank you for the nomination, Cate!
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you are welcome.
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Bill, I have nominated you for the WordPress Family Award: http://sweetrains.wordpress.com/2013/06/09/blessed-to-be-wordpress/. I know not everyone does these, but I wanted you knowing you’ve been an inspiration to me. I truly appreciate the strength and grace you’ve expressed through your faith in Jesus. Thank you, too, for the encouragement and support you’ve given me! I really appreciate it!
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Thank you SO MUCH, Rene!!! You’ve been a BIG encouragement to me.
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This is more than an inspiring post…
Your trials have brought you to the realization where Jesus writes MINE! To come to the to realization you are ENTIRELY HIS… He sees your heart and your will is a mirror to the Father’s will. You are a PERFECT delight to the Father where he blesses in abundance, not by doing, but being in the place he desires all of us to be with him. Amazing adventures begin humbled before the Mercy Seat!
Bless you!
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Thank you so much for your encouraging comments!
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Hello, Bill! Just dropping by to let you know I’ve nominated you for the Liebster award. If you would like to receive it follow the link here: http://createdbythepotter.wordpress.com/2013/06/06/liebster-award-2/ …thank you for the encouragement and wisdom you share! God bless!
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Thank you very much for the nomination!
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Bill I am sorry to hear and find out about Als. God has a big and great plan for you. Thank you for sharing all this insight with me. I myself am recovering from a spinal injury not being able to initially move from the neck down and feel that through our struggles we are connected. As I read your writing I felt comfort and better about my situation. Like you said never give the condition more credit than it deserves.
Your friend,
Lucas
http://www.leveluphealth.wordpress.com
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Thank you so much, Lucas. It’s so good to hear that you’re recovering!
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Bill~
I am not really good at these things and I know they are time consuming and I think you’ve already even been awarded this award, but I couldn’t leave YOU out since I was taking the time to give the AWARD… so just know it is because you havve touched me… Don’t fret if you don’t have time… I just wanted to recognize you as one of my friends!
xoxo
Diane
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Thank you VERY much, Diane! You are such an encouraging friend!
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I have met so many people, all youngish men like you in the past year on my travels who have ALS. I am so impressed with you and with them and the meaning you are making of your lives. You are an inspiration. We all are suffering from a terminal disease, some of us so bravely. Hugs to you and your family.
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Thank you, Cindy. There does seem to be a greater number of younger people being diagnosed with ALS (MND – Motor Neuron Disease in Europe).
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I am always encouraged by your posts and wanted to show my appreciation by a nomination for the One Lovely Blog Award. God bless!
http://especiallymade.wordpress.com/2013/05/31/whatever-is-lovely/
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Thank you very much – I am honored by your nomination.
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Hi Bill….thanks for stopping by “Unwalled” again and deciding to follow; I am truly honored; I pray that the Lord uses my posts to encourage, edify and inspire you in 2013 and beyond……and thanks for being such a steadfast warrior of faith……:)
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Thank you very much for your encouraging comments, Kim.
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Hello Bill! You inspire me in so many ways and I’ve nominated you for an award. You can find the details here: http://lifeofaministermom.com/2013/05/20/you-are-appreciated-blog-awards/. There’s absolutely no pressure to accept. I simply want you to know how wonderful I think you are!!
God bless you!
Patricia
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Thank you very much, Patricia, I am very honored by your nomination!
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Thanks for sharing! Feeling compelled to pray for you and your family as you go through this intense trial. Your words ” I don’t believe anyone should allow a disease or any life-challenge to define who they are” really resonated with me as it is something that I have tried to live out in my own life. I’ve had CFS for 8 years (though I’m humbled when I think of what you’re going through) and have found it so important to not let it define me. Only Jesus should define me. Bless you.
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Thank you very much for your comments and for your prayers!
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May The Lord continue to bless you with strength of faith and a renewable joy and hope. I do like the title of your blog!
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Thank you, Elizabeth.
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Thank you for sharing. I love how Jesus, the Morning Star, shines brightest during the darkest moments. God bless.
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That’s right, KD. Thank you.
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Amen Bill! God bless you and your ministry of hope!!!
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Thank you very much.
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What an inspiring blessing you are! So grateful to read your blog! Blessings and strength to you!
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Thank you very much.
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Bill you and your family are indeed courageous! I salute you and send you many good wishes. Regards.
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Thank you very much!
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Thank you for liking my blog. Your’s is so encouraging.
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Thank you, Sally.
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Wow, just found your blog and have been so blessed and encouraged this morning! I shared your testimony with my husband and we both were praying for you at lunch. Jesus has received much glory from your journey!
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Thank you so much for your encouraging message and for your prayers, Lauren!
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I just found your blog and I can tell your faith is strong, May God continue to bless and provide for you and your family, hugs!!! 🙂
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Thank you very much, Patricia.
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Hi Bill, What an amazing story you have and thank you for spreading the message of true hope. I will definitely visit again! Thanks so much for stopping by my blog, and what a blessing that it led me to your blog. Blessings in Christ, Hannah
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Thank you very much, Hannah.
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Hello Bill! I’m so glad I found your blog. What an encouragement! I’ve gone through quite a bit with my health as well so I can relate to your story. People like me need to hear the hope in the midst of tragedy and pain. Praise God for His faithfulness!
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Thank you.
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Hi Bill. I just wanted to let you know that I have nominated you for The Sunshine Award as you bring so much ‘sunshine’ into the lives of so many with your testimony and beautiful, creative and pure writing. The link for the simple rules is: http://sherrimatthewsblog.wordpress.com/2013/05/03/part-two-the-sunshine-award/ I hope you will accept! Many congratulations!
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Thank you so much for your encouraging words and for the nomination, Sherri!
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You are very welcome Bill 🙂
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Bill, I have nominated you for The Versatile Blogger Award! Congratulations! Please visit this link for the rules: http://pegrichards.wordpress.com/2013/04/27/nominated-for-the-versatile-blogger-award/
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Thank you very much, Peg!
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1Corinthians 10:13 “There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.”
It is well with you brother, in Jesus Name.
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Thank you, Adeolu.
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It was great to see you at my new blog, Bill–praying God’s favor and blessings on you and your lovely family. Whether it’s ALS or Depression, God is with us and promises to see us through–“Unshakeable Hope” means more to be now than ever; it is one of His greatest gifts to us, His children. your sister in Him, Jael-Caddo
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Thank you for your encouraging words, Jael.
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Bill – I admire your courage and your strength in living with your ALS for so long. For me the journey is just beginning, but I am so grateful to be able to connect to fellow PALS who can help show me the path to serenity.
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Thank you, Stuart. There are several PALS on WordPress. I look forward to communicating with you.
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Thank you for liking me. I am so excited about blogging and meeting so many great people and their stories. Like they say, everyone has a story. This is day two for me and I think I am going to like this forum. Thank you for sharing your story and for your hope. God Bless You.
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Thank you, Ria. I look forward to reading your posts. (For some reason the URL link to connect to your blog isn’t working?)
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Congratulations ~ I’ve nominated you for the WP Family Award! Please stop by to pick up your award ~ Hugs to you! http://misifusa.wordpress.com/2013/04/20/a-la-familia-wp-family-awards/
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Thank you very much for your nomination!
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You are so welcome! Big hugs to you Bill! Keep inspiring us all just by being you!
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You are so welcome! We look forward to getting to know you better. Thanks also for visiting our blog and following it. We look forward to your feedback.
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Hi Bill,
Thanks so much for sharing what happened to you (and your family) as a result of ALS. Know that our prayers are with you guys and that we are here for you if you want to share or even vent privately.
Hugs and blessings,
Pastors George and Sharon
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Thank you very much!
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Hi Bill,
Thanks so much for your recent like of my ‘about’ blog page. It led me to your inspiring blog, which I am now following.
I am speechless, yet full of admiration for you. You are so positive, in spite of your challenges.
I look forward to reading more of your inspiring posts.
May God bless you!
Nancy
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Thank you very much, Nancy.
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Hi Bill.
Thank you for your life! Your living it so well.
I am a pastor in Australia and diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease (MND/ALS) January 16th 2013. It is still very fresh; I have recently shared this with the church that I am blessed to pastor. church180.com.
I am inspired by you to start my own blog soon as well. You are a champion Bill and I pray that as you are comforted you will have the strength to comfort others.
May God continue to reveal Himself to you and in you.
An unknown brother in Christ.
Phil
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Thank you so much, Pastor Phil. I hate to hear that you have also been diagnosed with ALS (MND)! Please let me know when you start your blog; I look forward to following. You have a great looking website. God bless you, Pastor.
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This is so inspiring. As a nurse I care for many ALS patients. Each handles it different but those who have the hope you have as well as a keen sense of humor, are a joy to be around.
I saw your follow of my blog and wanted to thank you, but I don’t see you in my list. Just checking to see if you’re still there. If so, thank you so much. You visited my Easter post, “Was Blind But Now I See”. I’d be honored to have your follow.
I was also wondering how you type your blog with ALS? Maybe I could pass some tips along to some of my patients.
Blessings to you. Great story of God’s grace. Humbling to know you sold everything to start over. Part of trials we face is the choice to cling or let go, especially when you work so hard for something. However, as a Christian, when we let go we open ourselves up to God’s great miracles.
Peace of Christ to you,
Alexandria
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Thank you very much, Alexandria. I type with an eye-tracking system. It’s a tablet computer with a camera that tracks my eye movements – it has an onscreen keyboard and it clicks wherever I look on the screen. It’s tedious, but better than not being able to use a computer.
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What a beautiful testimony Bill, God molds us in the midst of our trials. One of my many favorite scriptures is Romans 5: 3-5, the other is Psalms 34:19. God bless you and keep the gift of Unshakable Hope in your heart.
Love in Christ,
Ma Chris (and Rebecca too!)
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Thank you very much, Christine.
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Hi Bill,
Thanks for visiting my blog. I’ll be back to read more of yours. I am sad that you have ALS, but very happy you read that Gideon’s bible. I like your attitude toward life even though you have to live with this disease. God bless.
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Thank you very much!
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Nice reading about you.
Thanks for visiting my blog Ajaytao2010@wordpress.com. Browse through the category sections, I feel you may definitely find something of your interest.
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Thank you for checking out my blog.
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thank you sir
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Thank you for the recent like on my blog. God Bless!
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What an inspiration your story is! I noticed you stopped by my blog and decided to check yours out…so glad I did! Thanks for stopping by and I shall now become one of your many “followers”
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Thank you very much, Valerie.
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God is using you to make a difference. Very inspirational story. Thank you for sharing…
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Thank you very much!
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Bill,
We too have lived through a medical “trial” – my husband nearly died of meningitis. The story is going in my book but you can read an excerpt here if you’d like. He had a true miracle recovery in the ICU that even the CDC doctor couldn’t explain.
http://40yearwanderer.com/2013/02/16/he-was-near-death-2/
That experience and being out of work for 2 years put us in a terrible place. But God did allow it for a reason! We struggled whether or not to go through bankruptcy. Fought it for over a year. But after trying hard and then praying over it a long time, we felt as if it was what we were supposed to do in a very strange way. We didn’t want to! But God quite amazingly walked with us and showed us what we were supposed to do and since then He has blessed our devotion to Him. We wouldn’t change a thing – thankful He pulled us through.
God bless you for writing about what He has done for you and your family! I look forward to reading your blog.
All for His glory,
Heather
40YearWanderer.com
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Thank you for sharing that awesome testimony, Heather. I recently read a book titled “Proof of Heaven” that was written by a Neurosurgeon (didn’t believe in heaven) who had a near death experience after going into a coma brought on by Meningitis. He sure believes in heaven now:-)
I am glad your husband recovered! Happy Easter, Heather!
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I might have to find that book!
Happy Glorious Easter to you too!
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You’ve written so many Biblically quotable truths, I am gorging myself on them. This is a lovely testimony: God supplies not worldly affluence, but His grace, which is all we really need in our lives. May God bless you!
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Thank you very much. God bless you also.
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This is great blog- I like the concept and I like the topics. Looking forward to reading more. Thanks for sharing your words and stories.
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Thank you for the follow, all the best!
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Thank you, Alex.
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This is awesome, Bill. Thank you so much for sharing your testimony with the rest of the world. God is truly to the answer to all of lives trials.
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Thank you, Kerri.
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thanks for your visit to my blog recently. I understand your story a bit as a chronic renal patient…we operate out of daily grace. Blessings to you and your work.
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Thank you. You’re so right; it’s ALL about grace! God bless.
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Thank you so much for the “follow”. It blesses my heart knowing that my poetry is touching others. I’ve been following your blog, and always look forward to your posts : )
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Thank you, Teresa.
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Glad to have read your post; it’s very encouraging. 🙂 I pray God will use you in a mighty way. 🙂
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Thank you, Jason.
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I have nominated you for this award. http://caroldeforestshinde.wordpress.com/2013/03/18/very-inspiring-blogger-award/ I love your blogs.
Blessings,
Carol 🙂
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Thank you very much, Carol.
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You’re very welcome, Bill 🙂
Blessings,
Carol
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Wow Bill… I admire your faith in the face of massive challenges. I too sold off virtually all of what I had to deal with challenges I was facing (and mistakes I was making).
I agree that if we are not in a trial that one is unmistakably on the horizon. I do not take this as pessimistic. I know many highly successful people by numerous measurements of success…. and every one has faced trials and in fact live lives of series of tials.
Thank you for being an inspiration in your faith and determination. You help build my faith by doing so… and for many others I am sure.
Bless you bro.
Chaz
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Thank you, Chaz. I agree with you; admitting we’ll face trials is not pessimism, it’s being realistic and It is believing what Jesus said – “Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows…” (John 16:33)
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You and your faith are an inspiration. Thank you for allowing me to read your story. Consider yourself followed lol!
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Thank you, Julia.
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Thanks for stopping by and liking my post. I appreciate it! Glad that you found it otherwise I couldn’t have inspired and encouraged by your blog/testimony. It really put things in perspective. Thank you for sharing! Blessings!
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Thank you very much.
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Bill, I just came across your blog and am inspired by your faith and openness about ALS. My best friend — Jim “Catfish” Hunter, former NY Yankee and Hall of Famer Pitcher — died from ALS in 1999. Through the years I have met and known several people who have bravely continued to live and thrive while at the same time struggling with this horrible disease. Please know you are in my prayers. I believe in miracles! I believe we will one day find a cure for this so that others will never have to suffer with it. God bless you.
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Thank you for your encouraging words and your prayers, Keith. As a baseball fan, I am very familiar with Catfish Hunter and I knew he had ALS. But didn’t he die from falling and hitting his head? He seemed like a great guy – sad! God bless you, Keith.
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Technically Bill, Jimmy’s death was a result of the head injury but it occurred because the ALS had caused him to lose function and use of his arms. When he fell, he had no way to catch himself. Oddly enough, he also had a nephew who died with ALS about 6 years after he did.
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That’s what I thought, Keith. I knew it was the ALS that caused the fall; I too had falls like that where my arms were useless. I would try falling on my shoulder; it worked once but ended up in a broken shoulder. I now advise newly diagnosed ALS patients to start using a wheelchair when walking becomes difficult.
That’s terrible about his nephew also getting ALS!
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Welcome! Thank you for subscribing to follow my blog. I hope you are encouraged, inspired and enjoy the photos I take of life’s events as seen through the lens of my camera.
BE ENCOURAGED! BE BLESSED!
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Thank you, Francine.
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Hi Bill, thanks for checking out my blog, Jo’s Journal. I was both inspired and humbled to read your blog. Keep up the great work. Sending you kindest wishes, Jo
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Thank you, Jo.
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God restores, i don’t know how it will happen in your life but It will definitely happen. It is humbling how you trust God by not doing what othes are doing. God bless you abundantly. There is hope, indeed:)
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Thank you. God bless you also.
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Hey Bill I just have to nominate you for the Very Inspiring Blogger Award even though you probably would have received a tonne of them already.
Check out your nomination here:
http://10seventeen.wordpress.com/2013/02/26/an-amazing-thing-happened-this-site-was-nominated-for-an-award/
God bless you.
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Thank you so much, Stephen!
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I’m glad to have connected to you – I too have wondered so often the “why” of my husband’s illness and the hardships that have fallen to our children (ages 6 and 4) as a result. I try to make sense of all of it, and I can’t. I really appreciate what you wrote about trials and God allowing them to happen. That does help.
Quick question for you – do you use a program for “speaking” on an ipad? We are starting to research this now and would love your opinion.
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Thank you, Erica. Our daughters were 4 and 7 when I was diagnosed; today they’re 24 and almost 21. We can relate to your situation.
Is Jim still able to use his hands and/or speak at all? I am not able to do either so I type with a system that uses a camera to track my eye movements. Ironically the program is called ERICA (cannot remember what it stands for). But this system is obsolete now, even though it’s only 3 years old. Doesn’t Jim have an Occupational Therapist or another doctor that can recommend a device for him? Let me know more about his needs and I can help you find a system.
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Thank you for sharing your honest thoughts on your blog! I wish you God’s peace and help! 1.Peter 5,7 for you!
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Thank you, Tabea. “Casting my care on Him…” is something I still haven’t perfected:-) Thanks for the reminder!
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Thanks a lot for your comment unshakable Hope! Hmmm, casting my care on Him – i guess we all have to learn this every day again!
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Yes, Tabea, we all seem to want to “manage” our worries, fears and other “issues” ourselves. “Casting our cares on Him” is generally something we don’t do until we’ve exhausted all other options:-)
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Hi Bill! Wow what a Testimony, so powerful! I will enjoy checking out more of your blog and following your inspiring story! Thanks for stopping by my blog and liking my post! God bless you! 😀
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Thank you, Steve.
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Hi Bill. What state do you live in?
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I live in Texas, Craig.
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Bill, what a powerful testimony you have! Thank you for stopping by my blog 365 Days of Promise… May you be blessed!
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Thank you, Clare.
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Thank you. I find that the thing people need the most aside from Jesus is hope. You demonstrate that hope in a powerful way.
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Thank you, Jean.
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Thank you Bill for joining up with us we really appreciate you doing so, I’m sorry that it has taken awhile to thank you but I have nearly 400 e-mails in my Inbox and I’m still working my way through them with a Computer that has problems.
We look forward to sharing with you Bill and I hope the Scripture below will uplift an encourage you as it oes me.
Lamentations 3: 33 For He doth not afflict willingly nor grieve the children of men.
Isaiah 43:1-3 – Do not be afraid, for I have ransomed you. I have called you by name; you are mine. When you go through deep waters and great trouble, I will be with you. When you go through rivers of difficulty, you will not drown! When you walk through the fire of oppression, you will not be burned up; the flames will not consume you. For I am the LORD, your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Saviour.”
Jeremiah 29 :11-12 For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the LORD, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope
Christian Love from us both – Anne.
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Thank you, Anne. Those are some of my favorite verses! I can relate to your having computer problems; I hope you get them resolved quickly. God bless.
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You stopped my blog and I thank you. You have an amazing story and I am very impressed that you answer your comments. You have such inspiring words. You are not defined by your disease but God has used this trial to define who He is in you and I am very blessed to have stopped by your blog and see how God is doing just that. He is an awesome God and even tho you have this trial now, I know you already know this, but thank God that it will not be your eternal trial and God will make all things new!!! I can’t wait to meet you someday on the streets of glory! God bless you friend.
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Thank you so much for your encouraging comments, Correna!
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Wow. What a moving story. I agree with you. God doesn’t cause trials, but He *can* use them for good. I am so happy for you that you are still alive and fighting, and not allowing ALS to define you or your outlook on life. This world needs more people like you… Your words are inspiring. Thank you for stopping by my blog. I’m headed now to look at more of yours. 🙂
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Thank you, Jessica. Fortunately I learned near the beginning of this trial that I wouldn’t last long if I allowed this or any trial to define me. We are who God says we are whether or not our circumstances are good.
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Thanks for visiting my blog. An ALS survivor–Praise God! My sister-in-law fought the good fight about five years…Unshakable Hope is a great blog name.
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Thank you, Patti. I’m sorry to hear about your sister-in-law dying from this dreadful disease.
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Sorry, wrong word – duress. I was trying to say a place of extreme stress or hardship. Word’s don’t express. I hope you know what I am trying to say!!!
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You are somebody I really want to listen to. Thank you for your blog, and sharing your hope and perspective even from a place of such duress. Blessings to you!!! Diane
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Thank you so much, Diane.
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God has indeed blessed you in the lives you have touched. We would all pick different ways to be used by God – but you offer so much encouragement and inspiration to the rest of us to “bloom where we are planted”. May continue to bless you!
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Thank you for your encouraging life testimony! God bless you brother… and thanks also for liking my post ‘No Matter What’. 🙂
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Thank you, Jose.
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Bill I see you liked my post Don’t Drink the Tea, thanks for the visit. I see you have what my mother had, I later found out my brother also had ALS. It was from my finding out about my brother who I hadn’t had contact with for many years that I first starting blogging under odefarms.blogspot but recently moved to billiescauldron here at wordpress. I can not find the words of encouragement of ALS, but am glad you are being lifted and encouraged in HOPE. May your family be strengthened in your trials, know you are not alone. May you and your family be blessed in ways that we do not always understand. If you would like to email me directly I am at billiescauldron@gmail.com
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Thank you, Billie. That’s terrible about your mom and brother both having had ALS!
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Thank you for sharing these words of hope, inspiration, courage and faith. God bless you and your family, and may He give you the strength and will to carry through this period of trial and suffering.
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Thank you, Susanna. God bless you and yours too.
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Thanks for liking the post ‘Shadows Won’t Harm Us’ at http://scripturesresearch.com/
Many blessings to you!
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Just stopping by to thank you for your like on Shift Key today. And looking at your blog. Bill, a dear pastor of mine had ALS many years ago. You are in a difficult place of faith that only the hope you already have in Jesus can see you and your family through. Regardless of God’s will in this, the outcome is the same – Glory. You will know God’s glory and see him face-to-face.
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Thank you Bill for visiting and liking my new blog, which, in turn, led me to yours. I started my blog as a way to document my ‘fight back’ from a dark time through writing, As a Christian, I am inspired by what you have shared here, thank for baring your soul to us. I shall be praying for you and your family.
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Thank you, Sherri.
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Blessings to you, my friend. Thank you for sharing your story with the world. God is good.
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Thank you, Brian.
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I’m so sorry you battle this disease, but I’m glad you live with faith and hope. Thank you so much for dropping by my blog 🙂
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Thank you.
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you’re very welcome 🙂
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Bill, thank you for checking out my blog as it has led me to yours which I look forward to following. You are an inspiration and God bless you for sharing His Word and your journey with us. Nick
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Thank you, Nick.
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Doing great, Bill. Thanks for all you do to challenge and inspire. God bless. Connie
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I’m glad to hear that, Connie!
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You are such an inspiration to me. I have nominated you for the Versatile Blogger Award. Details are on my site. I look forward to more wonderful posts from you. God bless. Connie
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Thank you so much, Connie! I hope you’re well.
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Thank You!
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Thank you for being the encouragement that you are in reading my blog. Blessings on your day!!!
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Thank you, Joanne.
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Hey Bill. Thanks for sharing your story and testimony of God’s amazing love and grace. One of my christian brothers is battling cancer right now, and I have sent Him the link for this page. I know it will be an encouragement to him. So thank you for what you do, and being a light to all those that are facing their toughest and what may seem to be their darkest moments.
May God continue to richly bless you with favor and grace.
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Thank you very much and God bless you and this man with cancer also – I hope and pray for his total healing!
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How true your words are. Thank you so very much for sharing your story, wisdom gained, and light with the rest of us! What an inspiration and blessing you are to countless others. 🙂
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Thank you, Carol.
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So are you healed of the disease?
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No, unfortunately I still have ALS. Thank you for asking.
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Does medical treatment keep it in check?
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Unfortunately there is no medical treatment to speak of. I don’t take any medicine for ALS.
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Does it make tying difficult?
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I am paralyzed so I have a computer system with a camera that tracks my eye-movements to an onscreen keyboard – it’s like a mouse that I control through eye movements instead of hand movements.
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woooooooow! that is absolutely amazing!
I suppose you have reported that on your blog, and I have missed it!
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Yes, I have probably mentioned just about every aspect of this disease on one post or another:-)
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Bill, Why don’t you put up a picture of you and your family here? This will communciate even more the pathos of your situation. Your blog has a much greater reach than just ALS patients. It speaks to the very essence of human frailty and failure, setbacks and discouragement. Your life could easily be a successful book that could bring hope to many. A few tweeks on your blog would help it grow in followers. Pictures! Put pictures to draw the reader in more! Would you like to turn your blog into a book?
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Thank you so much for your encouragement! That means a lot and I think encouragement like yours and so many others has helped my outlook tremendously. I haven’t added pictures of myself to the blog because, as I told someone else that asked that, I have a face that’s better suited for email and other mediums of anonymity:-) Seriously, I will add some pictures.
As far as writing a book goes, I began this blog to give and increase hope; I’m open to any means of increasing that mission.
I would appreciate any advice you could offer me.
Thanks again for your help and encouragement!
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I think the subject is certainly worth and the story inspirational. Blogging is a great platform for building up to a book. But yes, some pics would draw more readers in to your writing and keep them there. You already have quite a few followers. But the potential is still greater. I’m at your service, Mike
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Thank you, Mike. You might regret telling me, “I’m at your service.” I have several questions for an experienced blogger like yourself.
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Ask away.
Not that I know everything.
But I have learned a few things.
I’ll be more than happy to share what I know.
Freely you have received, freely you must give!
🙂
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Not every photo should even be of you. The photos draw readers in. They create a mood that compliments the mood of your words like background music in a movie. Some of the photos must be of you. your blog has such enormous potential because not only what you say and how you say it (well) but obviously who you are and what you are going through. Your life experience gives you authority. You’re not speaking theoretically or glibly about real life suffering. You are a modern dad Job, and your prose soars on the wings of eagles. Here’s another tip: on your keyword tags, use all the variations of ALS because you’ll start popping up on Google search. Include “hope for ALS” “hope for ALS sufferers” etc. You’ll start growing in followers.
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Wow, good advice, Mike! I am going to read this a few more times.
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I get eye-popping photos off of Pinterest. You can also swipe them from Tumblr, Flickr, Instagram but credit the source in the caption. I label the photos according to the source and file them away. I’m always building my file of photos. When I blog, I scan through them and look for ones that create the mood that I’m saying with my words.
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I will have to check out Pinterest; I’ve never even been on that site – from over hearing my wife and daughters talk, I thought Pinterest was for getting decorating ideas…
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It seems to have a predominance of women’s stuff. But among the wedding ideas, the crafts, the recipes, there are also wonderful photos and some cool Christian text boxes. I haven’t used flickr or tumblr, so I don’t know the ins and outs of it. I guess most of the cool photos on pinterest ultimately come form one of those places…
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I guess I am casting about trying to form a community, a writer’s group. I want to help people with what I have learned about writing and optimizing internet reach. And of course, I know I’ll be helped by those whom I help. I hope we can begin working closer together! Were you ever a pastor? (Sorry, I still haven’t read all of your blogs. They just appear to follow a very sermon-like progression).
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I appreciate your help.
No, I was never a Pastor.
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All right, not a pastor, but surely an ambassador and a priest.
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I am so moved in my spirit and humbled. I’m grateful to have connected with you. Praise the Lord and God bless you…in Jesus’ name, Amen.
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Thank you so much, Yahobahne. God bless you too!
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Thank you so much Bill. I feel I can go on fighting in this life and fighting to make my relationship with God better. I’ve been crying a lot lately and hating myself for the mistakes I made. And I hated the trial I am going through – albeit small. Nobody helped me see it better from the perspective of God like you did. I’m so grateful and I am not an emotional type of person. I even shared your blog on Facebook 🙂
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Thank you, Lola; it’s so encouraging to hear that I have encouraged you:-)
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So glad that I came across your blog, thank you for dropping by THEFEMININEHEART , I am looking forward to reading your inspiring words 🙂
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Thank you. I am looking forward to reading your posts too.
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Hi Bill……thanks for stopping by “Unwalled”…….happy that my About Page was a blessing to you. May God continue to strengthen your unshakable hope…..Kim
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Thank you, Kim.
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Hi buddy,
I nominated you for a star for Blog of the Year!!
check here on my post to get your award…
http://robinclaire.wordpress.com/2013/01/17/my-first-star-for-blog-of-the-year-award/
love you,
robin claire
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Thank you very much, Robin!
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Thank you Bill for liking my blog so that I could read yours. Amazing for sure! May God continue to be with you, sustain you & give you strength!
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Thank you very much, Joanne.
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Bill, thanks for checking in at CTK Blog. Your story is incredible and I hope to keep in touch. God is clearly working in you and through you. How stinking exciting is that?
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Thank you, Brian!
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Wow, what an inspiring story you have. Thank you so much for sharing and for reminding us that with God we can handle the worst storms. I look forward to reading through your blog and receiving new posts!
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Thank you Courtney. I hope that you and your soon-to-be-husband never experience any severe trials, but God will help you through all your difficulties.
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With tears in my eyes, I wish to thank you for this beautiful post. It’s so easy to become absorbed by long term illness and have it define us. We need to step back and see the wonderful working of His will for our lives unfold, stop resisting it and rest in His protective arms. He loves us and that is why we love Him. Appreciate your encouraging “like” on my blog.
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Thank you for your kind words. You are completely right, “it’s so easy to let a long-term illness (or any trial) define us.” We must fight against that; whether good or bad, we are not defined by circumstances.
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Bill,
I always find your post so encouraging. It is good to see the work that GOD does in the lives of other believers. I appreciate that you always read my blog, it is humbling, to be honest, that a man with such great faith and a talent for communicating it would take the to e to read the things I am discovering. GOD bless you Bill, as I know he will be cause he already has.
Jack
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Thank you very much, Jack! I get encouraged from reading other blogs.
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Mr. Bill, thank you for your blog & for sharing your heart. And thanks for stopping my blog & liking my most recent post.
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Thank you, Nick.
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Bill,
I am honored that you found something helpful in my blog. And you are absolutely right: if difficulties haven’t shown up, they will. But our God is bigger than than them all. 🙂 Blessings and prayers,
Phyllis
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Thank you, Phyllis. God is bigger than anything we’ll face.
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Greetings from Australia Bill,
Your story really touched my heart. I feel for you, and am sad of your plight, but at the same time this is tempered with joy and peace knowing that your trials have made you stronger. You are a beautiful testimony of God’s love to sustain us His children in times of hardship and tragedy. I believe that God allows these things in our life to show us a mirror that reveals truth about our faith and spiritual walk with Him. Tragedy reveals the faith of a person, this is the meaning behind “the parable of the sower”. I see with all my heart that this has opened up the wellspring of love for which I praise God. After all if we can bear tragedy with dignity and love, then this bears the strongest witness to the glory of God and love of our Heavenly Father. I pray that God’s grace shines even stronger in you. You are a shining light for me, I almost died at 12years because of a heart problem, I have a permanent disability because of several serious car accidents and complex surgery….but I am still here. Why ? Because the love of Christ our beloved LOrd and Saviour is what sustains me.
God bless you brother
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Thank you so much for your encouraging comments, Konstantine; I agree with everything you wrote.
My niece will be going to Tasmania a few weeks to study for a semester. Have you ever taken any photography trips there?
Thanks again.
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Greetings Bill,
I have visited Tasmania many long years ago, but didn’t manage to take any scenic photography. However I do plan on doing so in the near future.
God bless you my friend
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I have developed a great appreciation for landscape photography (and the Travel Channel:-) now that I am stuck at home.
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Thanks for visiting This Perfect World and liking my post, What do I do with discouragement? After visiting your blog and reading your story, it sounds like you have given that question careful thought over these past few years and done some deep soul-searching yourself.
Blessings to you and your family as you continue to live out your trials and your faith in such a public manner. May your hearts be encouraged and strengthened with each new day!
~lauree
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Thank you, Lauree. Believe me, I can relate to people who feel discouraged – I hope that I don’t gloss-over the discouragement that accompanies all of our trials. But in a weird way, even the discouragement is good – it gives us perspective and motivates us to search for joy, peace and hope… And we appreciate the joy, peace and hope so much more when we’ve gone through times of despair – it’s like tasting something sweet after only having bitter to eat.
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Thank you for stopping by my blog, and I’m glad I stopped at yours… Wow. I can relate to this on an uncomfortable level because my Dad has Lyme Disease (among many other health issues) and it has been whittling away at every aspect of his life for the past 17 years. I know his hope in everything but God and family are completely gone. Thank you for your candor and for being able to share your journey in such an encouraging way.
~Kim
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Thank you, Kim. I’m sorry that your dad has to deal with that horrible disease, but I’m happy to hear that his faith is still intact.
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thank you for liking my blog, and also thank you for being such an inspiration to many. All who have lived a life, each have a story to tell, and all matter. I only read a few of the comments, and I can just say ‘ditto’ to them. I’m so sorry that you have this affliction, and yet.. here you are. praising God for all He is! I was diagnosed in 1995 with Systemic Progressive Scleroderma, and given a death sentence at that time through Mayo Clinc. But God is gracious, and for whatever His purposes, I am here today. They say now it’s arthritis and limited scleroderma. When I was diagnosed, I cannot even explain the pain level to do the simplest-seemingly simplest things to most of us..brushing my hair, or teeth, walking across a small room, it was horrible, and with pray to do those. To have a sheet over my body was painful. They packed me with meds, said to go home, and be stressfree while I waited for the disease to do its thing, and then I would die. All those that I connected with at that time, have since died. For me, it was the same in the sense that we didn’t have much to begin with, and for me not being able to work, was VERY tough for us. But personally, all of it, was the best thing that could have EVER happened between me and God. I am SO thankful for His goodness to me. He made stop and be still long enough to hear Him. He took every possible distraction from me during that time and I got to know Him. I count it all joy. Again, my heart goes out to you in this trial, but I’m so thankful to see your heart through your words. Blessings to you this day.
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Thank you for your comments and for sharing your story. I like what you said – ” He made stop and be still long enough to hear Him. He took every possible distraction from me during that time and I got to know Him…” I think that is probably the biggest benefit of any severe trial – we stop and learn about who God is and who we really are. That happens also to be what my next post is about.
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great.. I look forward to reading the next one!
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Wow. What a story! Thank you for your challenging example of faith and perseverance, and thank you for the “Like” on my blog so I could find yours! May God pour His blessing out on you and your family.
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Thank you, Ellie. God bless you and your family too.
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Hi Bill,
Thank you for liking my post, “Why I Welcome 2013 with Hope.” Your LIKE led me to you and your powerful life story. I’m looking forward to reading more about your Unshakable Hope. May the Lord grant you strength and daily grace for your extraordinary journey of faith.
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Thank you very much, Yna.
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Hey Bill! I know this is late, but I just nominated you for the Blog of the Year 2012 Award 🙂 http://iluvgod.wordpress.com/2013/01/04/blog-of-the-year-2012-award/ God Bless 🙂
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Thank you so much, Sara, for your nomination and encouragement!
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Aloha Bill, thanks for the comments that you send my way! You are an awesome, overcoming Christian believer, a source of wisdom to many, but more so an exhorter to remind us to stay with the basics and to look for God’s greater plan which He is bringing forth soon!
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Aloha to you also (wish I was in Hawaii right now:-) Thank you so much for your encouraging words. Happy New Year!
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I know we shouldn’t compare, but when I read of trials like yours and consider the trial I am going through, mine is nothing compared to yours. Thank you so much for your unshakable hope and inspiration. I look forward to reading more.
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Rene, I believe that God gives us the grace we need to deal with any trial. The more severe the trial, the more grace He gives – it’s all relative, in a sense. This is why I never view any people’s trials as “minor.”
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Thanks for stopping by my blog, Bill! May God bless you as you continue to serve Him.
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Thank you and God bless you also.
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Bill I would just like to wish you and you family a happy and prosperous new year.
Minister Roderick Fowler
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Thank you so much, Roderick, the same to you and yours.
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Thank you Bill for liking my blog post so that I could discover yours! I trust that your determination to honor God through your life story is blessing others in amazing ways. May He continue to bless you and yours each and every day. All to His Glory!
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Thank you, Kathie.
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You are a beacon of hope and light in a dark world. This scripture came to me as I read about you and read your blog: 2 Corinthians 12:9 (KJV) 9 And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. And also this scripture: 2 Corinthians 1:4 (KJV) 4 Who comforteth us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God.
Therefore, dearest Bill, child of the Most High, be not weary in well doing but carry on to comfort others as you have been comforted by God and by proclaiming the hope that resides in your heart in the faithfulness of your Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. And may the God of all Grace pour out a blessing upon you and your family which is far beyond anything you could ever hope for or imagine. May the Holy Spirit, the Great Comforter, wrap you tightly in His everlasting love, mercy and grace. Hold fast to God’s unchanging hand for great will be your reward in heaven. Revelation 12:11 (KJV) 11 And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony;
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Thank you for your encouraging words and verses, Linda. I am still trying to get to the place where I can “glory in my infirmities”:-)
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Jesus said He did nothing of Himself but only what He saw and heard from His Father. Self reliance is the greatest downfall in the Christian walk. I cannot and will not pretend to even remotely know what it is like to be in your position. But I do know what it is like to be stubbornly independent. It is only by the grace of God that He has caused me to go through things to humble me and break me so that He might be able to use me even in a small measure. It is when we are helpless and throw ourselves on the mercy of God that He is able to work in our lives. He resists the proud but gives grace to the humble. God passed over many mighty men and chose a humble little shepherd who went on to kill a giant. God uses the weak things of this world to confound the wise. God is working in you and through you and because of your infirmity God is manifesting His glory. It’s easy to give glory to God when life is wonderful. It is quite another thing to give glory to God when faced with, in the natural, insurmountable obstacles. Your faith and hope are a testiment to the grace and glory of God working in your life. You certainly touched my heart. I will continue to keep you in my prayers and believe God for great and mighty things for you.
Linda Medlin
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Thank you, Linda. I agree with you – self-reliance and even self-righteousness seems to be a part of our nature. Even as a Christian, I didn’t realize how self-reliant and prideful I was before being diagnosed with ALS. The really shocking thing is that, even though I am completely helpless (physically), I still battle pride. This proves to me that these are heart issues, Linda!
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Hi Bill – I wanted to come back and read after seeing your story. My wonderful step-dad had ALS and I was able to help him and spend a lot of time with him so I look forward to hearing more of your story. Have you heard of Ed Dobson? He is a retired pastor in Grand Rapids, MI who was diagnosed long ago and written a bit too. Praying God’s richest blessings to you and yours Bill.
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Thank you, Judi. I’m sorry about your step-dad. I have heard of Ed Dobson; I read a great story about him online about a year ago. Do you know if he has a website or blog?
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If you search Ed Dobson – many things come up. Here is what looks like his personal site. http://edsstory.com/.
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Thank you, Judi.
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Bless you Bill. Thank you for sharing your journey. May God’s peace and presence bring joy and strength to you.
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Hi Bill,
Haven’t heard from you lately. How are you doing?
robin
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Thank you for checking on me, Robin. I am doing well, relatively speaking:-)
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Enjoyed reading your story. I hope you continue to do well and I send best wishes for a grand Christmas.
God bless.
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Thank you. God bless you also.
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Bill, where would we be without hope?
Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess for He who promised is faithful. (Hebrews 10.23) – a verse that challenges and comforts me.
Thank you for taking a look at my blog because now I can follow your journey! Blessings to you. Diane
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We would definitely be in a hopeless situation if we didn’t have a bigger than ourselves, Diane – a hope in a loving God! The verse you quoted is one of my favorite hope verses. Thank you for your comments and for following my blog.
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I look so forward to “watching” you journey through life. I appreciate your verses and quotes on hope. I do believe that life is like a diary in which one intends to write his story but God writes another. Press on!
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Thank you, Diane.
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Blessings to you and thanks for your good words.
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Thank you.
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Dear Bill
You have been such a blessing to me today. Firstly, thank you so much once again for following my blog, your ‘likes’ popping up really spur me on and are a genuine encouragement. You may have just read Mandy’s story on my blog these last 24 hours and if so you will know she has a massive forgiveness issue right now.
I couldn’t believe my eyes as I just read your post about forgiveness and immediately forwarded it onto Mandy and I know she will take it in. The reason I was so taken with your blog is because you wee authentic with your struggles and offered a practical and achievable solution based on a decision based on scripture.
Bill, I know you are the real deal and we speak the same language so may I please ask you to join me in prayer for Mandy. Bless you brother and thanks for your blog.
Warm regards and ‘live in the Victory!’
Craig Walford
Worn to Won
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Thank you for your kind comments, Craig. It’s difficult for most people, even the most sincere Christians, to be authentic. I suppose our pride puts up a false façade, but serious trials usually tear that façade down and allow us to become the “real deal.” It’s kind of hard to be pretentious when you have to rely on others to feed, bathe and dress you:-) I will pray for Mandy.
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Thanks for stopping by my blog. I am in awe of your strength. Blessings
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Thank you, Nancy.
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We just visited our friend who has ALS. He has maintained a great lifestyle for the last 12 years. Slowly, it is creeping up on him. Why can’t we find a cure?!
His wife has been so proactive with diets and vitamins. I sent them your blog!
Praying for you!
XOXO
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That’s good, Diane, I’m glad you were able to visit him. What do you mean by “he has maintained a great lifestyle?” With ALS that could mean everything from he’s still walking and talking to he’s still breathing:-). I am glad that he has a loving wife like me that takes care of him!
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Hi Bill,
I nominated you for the “Reality Blog Award” my dear. Come over to my blog and receive your award.
Love you sooo much,
robin claire
http://robinclaire.wordpress.com/2012/12/10/2171/
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Thank you very much, Robin.
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This is a great story and very inspirational that you turned to God during this really hard time in your life! I have goose bumps writing this comment and I pray that the best days of your life are still to come 🙂
God Bless!
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Thank you for your kind words. By comparison to some of the horrible things people have endured, this incident was relatively minor, but, as you said, it occurred during a really hard time so it felt like being kicked when we were already flat on our backs! But God helped us back up and continues to hold us up.
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I admire your strength, and I will be reading regularly as my brother has been in my care for the past five years, with me just recently placing him in a facility in his last stages of Parkinson’s Disease
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Thank you, Terry. I’m sorry about your brother having to go in a care facility.
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thank you. I am beginning the healing process of not having him here, which is a good thing
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Oh my, I can so relate to this: Every aspect of our life was working well; we were living our small part of the “American Dream.”
I quickly discovered that trials don’t just affect one area of our life; a health crisis impacts our finances, our emotional and spiritual life and our relationships etc. Every part of our lives are connected to one another like parts of an engine and one part breaking effects the performance of the whole engine.
Within a year of being diagnosed I could no longer walk or talk so I had to resign from my job. At that time, you didn’t begin receiving disability payments until 7 months after resigning from your job. Mary worked, but my income accounted for almost 70 percent of our total income. In addition to our usual bills, we now had mounting medical and credit card bills.
I also have this attitude and belief: Every aspect of our life was working well; we were living our small part of the “American Dream.”
I quickly discovered that trials don’t just affect one area of our life; a health crisis impacts our finances, our emotional and spiritual life and our relationships etc. Every part of our lives are connected to one another like parts of an engine and one part breaking effects the performance of the whole engine.
Within a year of being diagnosed I could no longer walk or talk so I had to resign from my job. At that time, you didn’t begin receiving disability payments until 7 months after resigning from your job. Mary worked, but my income accounted for almost 70 percent of our total income. In addition to our usual bills, we now had mounting medical and credit card bills.
God is doing a great work in you. Thank you for sharing your story. I am going to post your link on my blog. Thanks! CherylZ1961
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Thank you, Cheryl. I read about your own trials on your blog so I know you can relate. I hope you’re doing well.
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Unshakable Hope is the perfect name for your blog, and the journey you are sharing. I wish you all the strength and hope that you can possibly need – and then some.
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Thank you very much, Alarna .
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Thank you for using what you are going through to honor, glorify, and share Christ with others! What a blessing your writings are!
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Thank you very much for your encouraging words.
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I use this prayer when i have trials…..Father, I am so grateful for all Your splendid majesty and mercy! Thank You for dying on the cross and suffering my consequences. Yet more than anything, thank You for conquering death that I may be with you forever and ever! Help me to keep focused on You. May I never
look right or left, but continue to faithfully walk on Your holy path. Continue to guide me in all my ways. In Jesus name. Amen
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That’s a good prayer, thank you.
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I love your spirit! God is certainly faithful when we put our trust in Him! Bless you for turning your trials around to something that is a blessing to others!
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thank you, Lori. I haven’t completely figured out the secrets to going through trials, but I’m learning.
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You’re way ahead of most!
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Thanks Lori, but I still have a long way to go in figuring out this whole Christian thing:-)
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It sounds like you’re an “old fashioned” Christain! One with faith, and belief in the God of the Bible. Well done, too many take their cues from the social norm, and simply tag their faith on where it suits them (almost not a faith at all). Thanks for your story.
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Thank you for your comments, Stephen. I never thought about it that way, but I guess I am an old-fashioned Christian. Not so much out of some kind of rebellion of modern (Reinterpreted…) theology, but more because I’m a simple man that just believes what I read in the Bible. Where interpreting the Bible is concerned, I’ve never thought I needed a teacher, other than the Holy Spirit – “As for you, the anointing which you received from Him abides in you, and you have no need for anyone to teach you; but as His anointing teaches you about all things…” (1 John 2:27)
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Powerful testimony, Bill! Thank you for sharing how God worked in your life. May you continue to put your hope in Him.
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Thank you Danielle.
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Thanks for your encouragement and inspiration. Stay strong in His grace. Every blessing to you and yours…
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Thank you very much.
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I was diagnosed with breast cancer at age 34 and have been dealing with all of the trials and tribulations of the disease. I agree with you that it affects our lives and the lives of our loved ones. God Bless You! Keep inspiring us all! ❤
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Thank you. I am glad you survived and are here to inspire others to make it through their trials.
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this is one of the most moving story…i have no words for ur faith…all i want is u to prosper…because faiths can keep mountains moving….cheers to ur faith and will…..may god bless u over and over again..!
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Thank you Shruti!
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bill, i just had a chance to read your story and read through your last two posts. i love your boldness for god’s truth and your heart to share your story. it is encouraging and definitely points toward god. thank you.
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Thank you for your encouraging comments!
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Dear Bill, I want to thank you for your likes on my blog. I seek no glory but just have a story to tell which is often made easier to write by your simple but appreciated act of kindness. I pray Gods blessing on you and sincerely thank you. Craig
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Thank you Craig! Happy Thanksgiving.
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Several years ago, my husband and I owned a store. A young man constantly came to visit. It was unusual because it was a gift store, more than a “manly” store, but he brought his wife in and we all became best friends as the years went by. He had impressed us especially because he shared he had ALS. He invited us to his church and we began going. He has remained like you, stead fast and an icon of faith, a true example of of a follower of Christ. He has declined slowly but he has surpassed all of the doctor’s dismal predictions. I say… that God is in control… He is not the author of disease or tragedy and like in the account of Lazerus he wept with the family, even though He knew that He was going to raise him up! He weeps with us for our pain, though we live in a fallen world of disease and disaster, HE is faithful and if we are willing, HE can use it all for HIS glory. YOU my friend, are a stellar example of that!
I will be praying for you.
Thank you for sharing!
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Thanks Diane. I am sorry that your friend also has ALS. You said one of the most important truths – “He is not the author of disease or tragedy.” We cannot fully understand why God allows “disease and tragedy,” but, as you said, He is not the author of it! If I was to write a book about surviving trials, I think I would make that chapter number one! God bless.
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Hello Bill! Your hope encourages me and I look forward to really diving more into your blog as I stand with you on your journey. Also, thank you for following my blog at Faith1st Ministry. I hope it has and will continue to be a major blessing in your life. May God richly bless you as you continue to write and blog. Please continue with us on this journey and remember to have Faith 1st. — Sebastian
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Thank you Sebastian. As I can tell from reading some of your posts, you understand that hope and hopelessness are contagious; I only follow blogs that I can “catch” hope from. So you’re right, Sebastian, we’re on this “hope journey” together!
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You’re welcome Bill! It is our responsibility and to our benefit to find people of simular faith and hope, and join with them to grow and make a difference in this world. Bless you my brother! –Sebastian
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You’re right, Sebastian. Thank you for your encouraging words. Happy Thanksgiving to you and yours.
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Thank you and Happy Thanksgiving to you and yours as well! Blessings!
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Bill, thank you for stopping and liking a recent post. As I read your autobiography, your words reminded me of my 88 year old mother. She speaks in a similar way about God’s role in our lives. The trials are not caused by God. I find in the last few years I am saying that to her. I look forward to following a courageous person such as yourself.
Take care,
Ivon
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Thank you Ivon. I imagine your mom has seen her share of trials over 88 years, beginning with growing up in the Great Depression! She sounds like a wise woman.
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She has and much of what she is anchored by was a sense of family and community that emerged in the Great Depression.
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Bill, your blog must be as emotionally healing for you as it is for those of us reading it. I struggle with chronic pain issues (resulting from severe childhood abuse) and decided long ago I should enjoy what I CAN do now, because there will be a time soon enough I CAN’T do it. God has given me hope because I know this body is temporary (of course I still get discouraged and frustrated sometimes) and I will rejoice for my pain-free life in heaven.
Many blessings to you for starting this blog -I’ve never seen one like it before.
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Thank you for your encouraging comments, Denise. Life is too short not to be living it to the full – as much as physically and financially possible anyway. Despite your limitations (chronic pain issues etc), I can tell from your blog posts that you’re doing this.
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thank you. I watched the disease attack and destroy the body of my dear friend Earl Spangenberg but his spirit and his soul remained plugged into Jesus- STRONG, LOVING, COMPASSIONATE, WITTY and KIND. He amazed me—past tense, his battle ended just over 3 years ago and He is with the Lord. I pray you peace, your family strength and I stand with you in Unshakable HOPE! Bless you and your family!
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Thank you Denise! Earl sounds like he was a great guy; I look forward to meeting him one day, but hopefully not one day soon:-) I hope his family is doing well after losing him.
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Bill, thanks for dropping by my blog. And thank you so much for your testimony. Indeed, the Savior is our best hope. Facing adversity through fellowship with God the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit means victory.
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Thank you, Ricki.
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Bill, I relate to so much you have said here. Praising God through trials is easier said than done. Bless you Bill and your family
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Thank you Craig. God bless you and your family too.
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Thank you for stopping by my blog and liking my post. As I read this “about” I recall the patients I cared for when I was working as a Hospice nurse. Those struggling with life threatening illness have always displayed great courage. My thoughts and prayers are with you!
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Thank you. It’s one thing to display courage when forced into a situation like being diagnosed with a terminal disease, but people like you and like my wife, hospice nurses and caregivers, display even more courage because you choose to do what you do!
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Wow! I don’t know how you found my blog today, but I am SO glad you did, my new brother. I am deeply inspired and touched by your story and I can’t wait to read more about you and your journey. Your depth and vulnerability speaks volumes about you and your faith. I pray for God’s blessings upon blessings for you and your family. You already have what everyone searches for in this life – eternal perspective. We yearn for it. We crave it. But we’re too busy trying to fill our lives with the ‘shakeable things’, as you so beautifully wrote about. Since my mom’s brain cancer diagnosis a month ago, God is currently shaking all the shakeable things out of my life right now…again. It’s a heart-wrenching process that I’d never volunteer for, but it is truly a gift to experience the miraculous healing that is underneath. Life is better and sweeter because of it. I’m sure you know exactly what I mean when I write that. May your voice reach the hearts of millions. Keep the faith…and please keep writing. 🙂
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Thank you, Lori! I am glad that readers of my blog get the whole “eternal perspective” thing because that’s the only “unshakable hope” there is. My being diagnosed with ALS forced me into realizing that, but through this blog and in other ways, I hope to help even those blessed with great health and abundant wealth to adopt an eternal perspective.
I was sorry to read on your blog about your mom being diagnosed with brain cancer – she’s blessed to have you to help her through this trial! God bless.
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Thank you for sharing such hope with the world in spite of your circumstances – that is a great testimony. Thanks also for stopping by “Unwalled”…..I’m glad that my post “Stressed?, Inner Turmoil” was a blessing to you. May your faith in God and His goodness never fail as you walk through your fiery trial…….Shalom, Kim
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Thank you very much, Kim.
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Thank you Bill for appreciating my post about the Bridegroom. I greatly appreciate your blog and how the Lord must be using you to bless many. Have placed links on my page God Heals Today (http://wp.me/P1Y1yB-I2)
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Thank you very much, Richard.
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Greetings, Bill, I’ve been reading through your blog after discovering your “like” comment on my own blog, A Mending Feast. As someone who, like yourself, has a deep affliction, I find myself nodding again and again as I read your words. Thanks, Bill, for your encouragement and your testimony… and your faithfulness. I especially like the way you linked your blog title to the passage in Hebrews about things that “canot be shaken.” That really ministered to me.
By the way, how did you come across A Mending Feast? And is there any way to contact you by email? (You can get back to me through Contact Allan on my website if you like.)
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Thank you, Allan. I appreciate you reading my posts. I don’t remember how I came across your blog; I imagine I found it through reading a comment you made on another blog or through doing a tag word search, which I do from time to time just to find what other bloggers are writing about (I learn a lot from reading other blogs). I will email you so you’ll have my email address. Thanks again for your kind words!
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Yours story is a testament to the human spirit. I related to so much of your expression and agree that trials challenge us to reset priorities and establish what it is we have faith in. I will be watching here, and keeping you in heart and prayer ~ healing blessings always, Robyn
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Thank you, Robyn. I know from reading your blog that you know what it’s like to go through a long and seemingly endless trial. I am at least thankful that I don’t deal with chronic pain like you do. God bless you.
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Thanks Bill for coming by our blog and reading our posts to pray for pastors and their wives. I hope this encourages you to do so.
And thank you for sharing your story here! You are so right that as Christians we can expect trials and suffering. I love your attitude and you do have a lot to share with others. Blessings!
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What an amazing testimomy Bill. I am soooo touched by your strength, courage, and wisdom. But mostly your steadfast faith in the Lord throughout such an ordeal you went through and still go through. I too am going through a trial right now, and although it isn’t health related like yours, it is taxing and stressful. I fight fear and worry every day. You have given me the portion of hope I needed today by reading your testimony. Thank you so much! God bless you! ~~~Michele
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Thank you, Michele. I am sorry you’re going through a difficult time, but His grace really is sufficient and I hope you’re sensing that now. God bless.
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Bill, nothing is by accident in this lifetime. There is a reason why God allows our lives to entangled in his good timing we always find out his reason purpose. :)) have a wonderful day.
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You’re right, Bessie. Thanks again for your encouragement and prayers!
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Bill I have been lead to pray for you daily. So when my knees touch the ground every morning I pray for you. I am asking God to Bless you with health and strength , and for you to be surrounded with his loving angels. For his will in your life, to keep you in his perfect and Magestic peace, and if it is his will to heal you with a comple restoration, in Jesus Name. God Bless you👏
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Thank you very much, Bessie. I don’t think I would still be alive without the strength I receive through the prayers of people like you. God bless you!
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Hope does not disappoint! So Jesus answered and said to them, “Have faith in God.” (Mark 11:22) I have witnessed many miracles of divine healing through faith in Jesus and the power of the Holy Spirit. Be encouraged!
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Thank you for your encouraging words. I know that God still heals and does miracles!
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I just figured out how to work your blog!!!!
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Great! Maybe you can teach me:-)
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Wow! You are awesome, and its wonderful to see the way God touches your life. And how you touch the life’s of so many others and especially my life. Bill, may God continue to bless you. May he bless each and everyone whom visit your blog to leave with the Knowlege of Christ and there life to be touch in a way they have never Experienced before. May The Lord bless your needs Bill and multiply your finances. May he bless your wife in a special way, so she knows this could only be Christ. May he continue to bless your health so you can continue the good works of Christ. In Jesus Name. Amen.
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Thank you very much, Bessie!
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Dear Bill, you’ve taught me so much through humor and grace…… I’m so glad to be your sister in Christ. Love, Bec
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Thank you Becky! I hope school is going well – do your homework little girl:-)
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Thank you for sharing this with me. It saddens my heart a little because I miss my mom so much, but it gives me hope knowing that The Lord is Very Present in your time of trouble.
You’re a blessings. I will add you to my intercession list for strength healing and hope to continue to guide you and your family.
In Jesus Name
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Thank you for your prayers, Wendi.
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God bless you for blessing your readers. And I’m glad that the Lord used my post at http://morningdevotion.com/ to add a bit of blessing into your life. Keep serving, my friend!
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Thank you for “liking” a post of mine, which let me discover you. You are an awesome demonstration of the love and grace of God. May He pour out more blessings on you and your family than you could possibly hold, so that they will overflow to bless the whole Body of Christ.
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Hi Bill & family,
I have nominated you for the Thought Provoking Blog Award. Please feel complimented with no pressure to accept. If you like, check it out on my blog.
~ Wendy
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Thank you, Wendy; I feel honored, even though, as a new blogger, I don’t really understand these blogger awards.
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BTW… I have listed you on my friends page on my website – hope you are okay with that – people need to hear your wisdom!
Take care,
John Butzu
(jbutzu.wordpress.com)
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What a way to introduce yourself Bill! I am humbled that Christ has allowed me to read from such a man. You are truly an inspiration to those who are suffering. God bless.
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Bill, thank you for checking out my blog. I have been inspired and encouraged by reading a few of your articles and this About Page. Your faith in your circumstances is a true testiment to what the Lord has done in your life. I am glad to have found your blog, and look forward to future articles. It is apparent by the comments on this page that God is using your circumstances to touch others.
Praying for you and your family.
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Thank you for your comments and for your prayers, Mitchell.
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Glad you “liked” http://morningdevotion.com/ and will pray for the increasing success of your writing ministry. It encourages many, I’m sure. Could you please tell me how you found out about the MorningDevotion.com website? Thanks.
Martin Drummond
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Bill, thank you for stopping by. Praying for you, Mary and your girls. Bless you brother…
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Thank you, Arlene!
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Wow, a really powerful testimony there brother. All I can say is that you are doing great and thank you for coming over to my blog too. Please feel free to chime in whenever you like. 🙂
Peace and blessings to you, Bill.
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Thank you, John! You have a very thought-provoking blog.
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Thank you 🙂
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Amazing blog and you are an amazing person. God bless you and thank you for the inspiration.
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Thank you, Patricia!
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Your story makes me so sad, but still gives me so much hope, as I’m sure you want it to. My dad’s dad had MS (a different kind of sclerosis with an only slightly less difficult name). He, however, let the disease define who he was and things did not end well. I’m happy you find hope and peace in God, unlike my grandfather. I pray you will continue to do so as you clearly plan to. I couldn’t help but notice that one of your daughters is about my age. I’d be so proud of my father if he was terminally ill, but still so full of hope. May God bless you and yours.
-Marcus
And thank you for the likes on my blogs, by the way. If it wasn’t for that second one, I’d probably never have heard your story. I’m thankful to both you and our God for leading me here and introducing me to such a strong, faithful man of God.
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Thank you for your encouraging words, Marcus! I’m sorry to hear about your grandfather; I know MS is a horrible disease too! God bless you, Bill
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Just wanted to say that I am very honored that you took notice of my blog post the other day. I have been encouraged reading through yours, and I look forward to following it.
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Hi Bill, I wanted to thank you for clicking the “like” on a recent post of my mine. After reading your about page I can see that we have a number of things we share and have and are learning about our walk with the Lord. I’m going to follow your blog, and look forward to learning from your experiences as you live each day in the grace and mercy of our beloved God through our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
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Thank you Wayne, I look forward to following your blog also!
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Hi Bill- I think the Lord sent you to my blog because I ended up on yours after you liked my post and commented on it. I look forward to reading more of your blog. May the Lord greatly bless you!
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Thank you very much, Caroline!
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I so agree with you that God does not cause trials. He is amazing in that He can use them for good. That is truly impressive! Your faith impresses me too, and so I am going to follow your blog… ~ Wendy
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Thank you so much Bill for “Liking” our blog post “Unevenly Yoked” on http://tnlighthouse.wordpress.com and hope you favor us with another visit. Be Blessed!
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What wisdom, revelation and insight there is in this one post! All of it is so true, and so encouraging! Thank you for sharing and may God, Who gives all good things freely, bless you beyond everything you ever hoped, thought, imagined, or dreamed!
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Thank you Juliana! (I like your blog).
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Thank you, Bill…I love yours as well!! So glad to find you! God is good!
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Thank you for sharing your profound hope! 🙂
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I have only read your “About Bill”, but I can tell you have profound things to say to your readers. May God be with you as you continue your journey from this world to the next. Shalom!
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Thank you very much, Carole!
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Your story is truly inspiring, has left me in tears and is a marvelous testimony to the goodness of God. Through people such as yourself, more will come to know Him and how wonderful He is. Thank you for sharing and more than that thank you for spreading the news of the love and faithfulness of our God!!!!!!
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Thank you, Jisun! I love your new song!
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You are so welcome. Thank you for listening to my song 🙂
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Thank you for stopping by My Hmmm Collection but especially for sharing what God is doing in your life. Keep the Faith!
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Thank you for your LIKE on my blog post “2nd Corinthians 12:7-10”. I always enjoy reading about the people that visit my blog and, WOW…when I read what you’ve been through and how God has gotten you/is getting you through it all, I was so encouraged 🙂
May God continue to bless you and your family 🙂
Sara 🙂
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Thank you so much, Sara Anne! It encourages me to hear that you were encouraged:-) I started this blog to encourage people and give them hope – it never occurred to me that I would be encouraged and have my hope increased by people like you!
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Prayers and encouragement your way. God has seen me through several critical physical trials when doctors expected me to die. It is God Who numbers our days and gives us grace and strength to walk with Him to the end of our race
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Bill, Thank you for dropping by on ChristianBlessings today and for your Like on our Welcome Page. I hope you were blessed and would return often and be blessed. You are indeed a brave man and I salute you for your authenticity in sharing your experience. Yes, we need people like you who have had deep experiences to share the unshakable hope that you have in God, especially in this really shaky world.
If you would like to be a Guest contributor to ChritianBlessings for more International exposure just let me know. We collaborate in getting the good news and encouragement out to whoever needs it.
May the joy of the Lord be your strength and His face shine upon you in your journey of faith and ministry.
ptl2010
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Thank you very much reading my blog and for your encouraging words. I’d be honored to contribute to your blog.
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I shall send you an invitation to enable you to guest contribute if you will send me your email address. Thank you for your very prompt response. I am in Singapore and it is nearly 12.30am on Sunday morning. If you send me your email I shall send you the invitation later this morning when I awake. Look forward to receiving mutual encouragement in the Lord. Blessings to you and your family
Sent from my iPad
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Thank you. My email address is bsweeney60@aol.com.
God bless,
Bill
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Bill, good morning. I sent you an invitation (to your email address), to join us on ChristianBlessings on wordpress. Have you received it?
Evelyn ptl2010
Sent from my iPad
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Yes, Evelyn, I received it. Thank you!
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Hi Bill, thanks for LIKE my post of “That’s God”, so to give me a chance to visit your blog, which I have followed.
I totally agree with what you mentioned here, “I don’t believe God causes trials, but He clearly does allow them for reasons I don’t believe we will ever fully understand, at least not in this life. But, whatever other reasons God has for allowing trials, I discovered two big things that He accomplishes through our trials; He helps us reset our priorities and forms our character.” This is sooooooo true, just wish ALL people realise that.
May God continue to walk with you and your family.
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Our family friend Matt is in a band called Attaboy. He co-wrote and sings lead on their song “Unshaken”. It’s one of my favorite songs; it has a theme of hope. I think you might like it, too.
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I am honored to have you notice my blog. I am excited about yours and I rejoice at the work of God in your life. Difficulties and disabilities do not make us unable — but perfectly capable of being a display for God’s glory.
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Thank you for your encouraging words, Debbie.
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Good song, thanks for the link.
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when we´re in heaven, i honestly believe the degree of our suffering will be used by God as a pattern for our life in Him then. how you will rejoice that your life was so different! humans don´t have to suffer to learn what a loving Father He is, but most of us do have to suffer to even begin to learn it. i believe with all my heart it is a calling. even a vocation.
He wastes not one second of our sorrow.
how many great Christians through the centuries died disappointed because they were not martyred for their faith. i can understand that.
God bless you and your family!
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You have said so much with this, Bill. No one can truly understand what all goes on ‘behind the scenes’ at times just to exist with ALS. It’s not from a lack of caring by others, but just an innocent ignorance. Your blog is such a blessing as you draw the curtain, you also share your trust in God to get through each day. I’m so glad to have been put into Mary and your lives!
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Thank you, Sharlene!
No one knows more about taking care of people with ALS than you do. Mary and I thank God for placing you in our life. And, thanks for assuring me you won’t quit after you win the Publishers Clearinghouse; I was getting worried after you told me you entered:-)
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God allows trials and tribulations to allow His glory to shine forth, and His power to be seen by others. Bill – His glory and power are shining brightly through you! God bless you.
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Thank you, Cynthia!
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You are so welcome Bill.
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Bill, I am so glad that you clicked like on my Blog ! I read about Bill I couldn’t help but want to cry. I have suffered Brian injuries, and Rheumatic fever, and Fibermyalgia since childhood as well as sibling brutality. When I turned 43 or so my world imploded when FMS became severe, at that time every aspect of my life went through the meat grinder and I ended up completely alone. Still today 8 years later, I am finally getting understanding into my heart, and I am pretty angry at the ones who were supposed to ‘love’ me . Be angry but do not sin the Bible says. Well I forgave after losing my wife, kid’s, home and church, but Still the battle goes on every moment of every day. I hoped like you that my writing would reach others For the sake of Salvation, and that they would come to know the Lord in far greater depths than what I have seen in our Current Christianity. I believe the Lord has given me this gift, to dig deep into the wells of Salvation and bring up the Hidden treasure, not for myself,but for others.
May He open the Doors for you the wellsprings of Life, and I pray for healing Virtue to wash over your complete person, and you be healed. I Jesus name amen
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It sounds like you have had your fair share of trials. As you discovered, trials reveal to us who really cares about us. Like the Prodigal son, it’s easy to find friends when you have something to offer, but not so easy when you’re in need. fortunately my family and friends rallied around me when I was diagnosed and have stuck by me ever since. I hope and pray things get better for you!
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I used to love the story of the Prodigal son Bill, but now I am wondering where my Father will show up so I can see him and run to him? It’s a bit scary some times.
I have suffered since childhood, and the biggest pain I have ever faced hit me like a rock yesterday, that was the thought that this may be my lot for life, and it may be that like those in Hebrews 11 I will not get relief from this fight until I am gone from this earth. which is okay, if it’s Gods will, but I hope , I hope different.
Lord Jesus bless your day
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You cannot accept that suffering is your “lot in life.” While I’m convinced that heaven must be our primary hope, I also believe we must have hopes for this life. In one of your previous comments, you quoted Paul – “If we have hoped in Christ in this life only, we are of all men most to be pitied.” (1 Corinthians 15:19). I believe the reverse is equally true!
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Hi Bill,
I really like the name of your blog and the positive attitude and spirit that is displayed in your writing. I heard a preacher say a long time ago that our trials will either make us bitter or better. It’s obvious to me that you have chosen the latter. Sometimes it is hard to understand why God allows certain things to happen in our lives, but He does have a reason for it. If we try to figure out the why, we will end up frustrating ourselves, but if we can simply trust Him, He can give us that peace that passes all understanding.
Thanks for what you shared here and for also taking the time to visit my blog.
Blessings always,
Carol Connell
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Thank you for your comments, Carol. You’re right, trials make us bitter or better, but I find that I have to choose which I’ll be every morning:-) My choice always begins by reminding myself that God is good! I have found that people cannot be “bitter” if they believe that God is good and you cannot read the New Testament without concluding this.
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Thank you, Sue! Happy Easter!
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Thank you for the re-blog, Shandra. Happy Easter!
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Thank you so much, Charity!
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Thank you very much, Leslie.
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Thank you for the nomination, Dave!
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Thank you for re-posting these quotes on your blog.
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Thank you so much, Bruce, for including a link to my blog in your post about your friend Lynn.
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Thank you so much for the re-blog, Bruce.
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Thank you for the re-blog, Julie!
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Thank you very much for the re-blog, Bruce.
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Thank you very much for including me in your post, Lisa Beth.
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