I am so blessed to be part of a Bible study group of women who pray for each other. Even though we do not meet during the summer each year, with the ease that texting provides to instantly communicate with others, I did not hesitate to contact these women a few days ago. Two big needs have emerged in my life, and I coveted their prayers for the Lord’s help and provision.
Lower back pain has been an ongoing, often excruciating issue for me, and surgery has now been scheduled for August 20. I have a bulging disc pressing on my sciatic nerve which is sending pain down my right leg. This makes it very difficult to find a comfortable position without pain. Sitting is out! So, I have been thanking the Lord that He is still allowing me the privilege to stand and walk. There are some herniated discs that are also contributing to my pain. I asked my Bible study group to pray that my surgery will be successful with no complications and a quick recovery.
How reassuring it was to immediately hear back from a number of the ladies in my group. One of them said she had previously undergone the same surgery. “It helped me a lot,” she reported. That is very encouraging!
My bigger need, which is breaking my heart, is what to do with my beloved dog, Charlie. I am so thankful that the Lord has kept me able to walk and take him every day on the outings he loves. But I will not be able to do this and to care for him for two months following the surgery. That is a long time. No one in my family is able to help with this issue.
In texting the ladies about this need, I included information about Charlie. He is a lab mix, six years old and loves to run. He weighs 45 lbs and is very playful. Because of his beautiful brown coat, I named him Charlie Brown – but call him Charlie. I have specifically been praying for a home with a fenced yard with trees and squirrels so he can let off energy by running around which he so enjoys.
Though I received many caring responses, for various reasons none of the ladies are able to open their homes to Charlie. One suggested that I post a picture since it might help someone fall in love with him. After a bit of searching, I found a photo of him lying on his bed with his head up and his beautiful eyes looking right into the camera -- and I immediately sent it to them.
I also have two friends in my retirement community who are very concerned and working with me on this problem. One found a lady who would care for Charlie in her apartment. But I am afraid she might be too old to handle Charlie.
Even while I was arranging to meet with this lady, another friend was phoning me. When I called her back, she said her daughter and family had offered to foster Charlie for three months! These are people who love animals! They have a 43 lb. tortoise (with a spa they made for him in the backyard!), a cat and an older German shepherd. The other dog is a bit of a red flag for me because Charlie may be very intimidated by this big dog. But I am trusting God that this is going to work out. If the two dogs’ bond with each other, it will be so wonderful for both of them. Who does not want a friend?
My prayer, now, is that the Lord will cause these two dogs to really love each other! And, if it is His plan, the family will fall in love with Charlie and adopt him. That would bring me peace and joy in knowing that Charlie will be in a loving home with a younger family who can take care of him.
As I am witnessing how the Lord is answering my prayers, it just increases my confidence in a great outcome from the surgery! Truly, there is no God like our God!
August 16, 2026
Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding.
In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.
Proverbs 3:3-4
