One of my Heroes of the Faith

"I'd rather be in this wheelchair knowing Him than on my feet without Him."

~Joni Eareckson Tada

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For over 40 years, Joni Eareckson Tada has been confined to a wheelchair. A diving accident at the age of 17 left her paralyzed from the neck down. I have never met her, but God has used her ministry through speaking, books, & family retreat to greatly encourage me. The one passage that immediately comes to mind when I think of her is 2 Cor 1:3-11. Here's why:

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1) She strives to bless "the God of all comfort" at all times. (v. 3)

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2) She allows God to comfort her in all her affliction. In return, she has been used to comfort millions with the same comfort that she receives. (v.4)

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3) She is transparent about her suffering, difficulties, and pain. She doesn't paint a picture that life is all good and happy. But she beautifully displays a life of satisfaction and joy in Christ. She has been an example of "relying not on ourselves but on God." (v. 8-9)

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4) She continues to set her hope on God and has devoted her life to telling others about this all-sufficient God of hope. (v.10)

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5) She humbly asks for prayer for herself and for the ministry that God has entrusted to her. (v.11)

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Thank you Joni for 30 years of ministry to people with disabilities and their families across the US and around the world! I praise God for you! You are truly a gift to the body of Christ!