I have been spending some time off during the month of November and December due to having surgery on my shoulder. It has not been the easiest thing I have ever dealt with. On the other hand, I have learned some valuable lessons. First, I have learned that when you have surgery, be careful what you say when they administer the “happy juice.” You know, the drug they give prior to the surgery that calms you down. You need to be careful what you say, cause those visiting with you will remember what you do not. After its over they will be sure to tell you what it was you said. Second, when you have shoulder surgery, never, and I do mean never tell your wife how to drive the car. Why? Without her–I go no where! What she does not need is a passenger who is on pain killers telling her directions through blurred eyes. Besides, she really is a great driver (except at night). Third, The couch is a great friend. For about a month,  sleeping in the bed is out of the question. I have learned to sleep sitting up on my couch. The benefit, you wake up and don’t have bed head! Forth, and this is one of the most important; I never realized how wonderful it is to raise my hands in praise to the Lord. The Psalmist said, “Lift up your hands in the sanctuary, and bless the LORD (Psalms 134:2). I have not been able to lift my right arm over my head since my surgery and I can tell you this, when you can’t do something you do with out thinking, you miss it! I have always loved to raise my hands to the Lord in praise, yet over these next few months I have realized just how much I need to raise my hands to Him. Giving our God praise is why we were created! I confess over the years I have had opportunities to raise my hands in praise to the Lord and did not. Well, I would love to be able to raise both hands to bless Him. You see, the surgery on the muscle has caused my shoulder not to work yet. I have little strength due to a lack of use. That is what happens when you don’t use what you have; YOU LOSE IT! Don’t lose it! take the time to bless the Lord with both hands raised. Come on, you can do it! Raise them up high, and bless HIM! The only way for my right hand to go over my head is with the help of a therapist who is working with me to get the muscles working again. It hurts and it is difficult but in a few months I will be lifting my hands high. If you can’t raise your hands on your own, ask someone to help you. It may be difficult at first, however in the end, it will be worth it. He deserves all the glory and all the praise. Lift up your hands in the sanctuary, and bless His name.

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