Just two days ago, I had the privilege of taking one of our ladies to the eye clinic. Her name is Dixie Wilkerson. She truly is a modern day Job. After having experienced the desertion of her husband, the suicide of at least two loved ones, and lifelong battles with a multiplicity of illnesses, the Lord has allowed yet another battle with health issues to encounter her. While she is in the midst of several spinal operations, she has come down with shingles which have spread into her eyes, sealing shut the only good eye she has (the other is a lazy eye due to an infancy illness). With all this affliction, one could only expect a sullen spirit and an agitated attitude. At least I know that I would struggle immensely.
On the contrary, she continually demonstrates a joyful and humble attitude while exemplifying an unwavering trust in the God she loves. The night before I took her to the eye doctor, she awoke at 2 a.m. only able to lie in bed as she felt the most excruciating pain in her head due to the shingles. She lay there all night in prayer for others. What a godly testimony.
On the way to and from the eye clinic, she was an incredible blessing. Yes, she did express discomfort and pain. Yet, she was so interested in my ministry and my cares, that her obvious discomforts were not a matter to her. She sought to encourage me and my walk with the Lord more than seeking attention or comfort. She quoted verses which are sustaining her during this tremendously difficult time. I praise the Lord for Dixie Wilkerson. As with all those in Hebrews 11, she is a monument of one who by faith, trusts in God.