A Faith of Trust: God is Behind Me
Since my days in junior high school, I have always held a steadfast belief in Jesus. Throughout the years, I have not been without my faults; I have sinned numerous times. Yet, despite my transgressions, God has always extended His boundless forgiveness to me. He has responded to many of my prayers, although some remained unanswered for months.
In the past twelve months, I have experienced a profound transformation in my faith. I have learned to place 100% of my trust in God through Jesus, no matter the trials and tribulations that come my way. This commitment has been especially evident as I grapple with my medical issues. There have been moments of doubt, yet in those times, I firmly rebuke Satan, asking him to get behind me. Immediately, I seek God’s forgiveness for the negative thoughts that have invaded my mind. Each time, I am met with an overwhelming sense of relief.
For you shall not go out in haste, and you shall not go in flight, for the Lord will go before you, and the God of Israel will be your rear guard. Isaiah 52:12 ESV
This verse states that God is my rear guard, so when I tell Satan to get behind me, he is behind God. In biblical context, the concept of God as a “rear guard” reassures believers that God walks behind them, safeguarding their journey and ensuring my protection.
My story is a reminder that no matter how far we stray, God’s grace is always within reach. It is a call to trust Him fully, to seek His guidance in times of doubt, and to find solace in His eternal promises.
As I continue to strengthen my faith, I am constantly reminded of the power of prayer and the importance of unwavering trust in God. This journey has taught me that even in the face of life’s greatest challenges, there is always hope and redemption through Jesus Christ.
On Tuesday, April 8, 2025, I was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. Faced with this life-altering news, I found myself reflecting on the experiences of my family member and friends who also live with this condition. One of my friends has been battling Parkinson’s for about ten years and remains active, which serves as a beacon of hope and resilience for me.
Coming to terms with my diagnosis was not an easy journey, but I have embraced it with a sense of acceptance and no regrets. I understand that Parkinson’s is a part of my life now, and I am committed to facing it with courage and optimism.
In seeking support, I have joined a Parkinson’s group therapy at the local YMCA, where I attend sessions four days a week. This group provides me with a sense of community and connection, allowing me to share my experiences and learn from others who understand the challenges and triumphs that come with this diagnosis.
Despite the uncertainties that Parkinson’s brings, I am determined to live my life to the fullest. The stories of my friends and family who continue to thrive inspire me to remain active and engaged. I am grateful for the support network around me and the opportunities to connect with others on a similar journey.
Parkinson’s disease may be a significant part of my life, but it does not define me. With acceptance, support, and optimism, I face each day with a renewed sense of purpose and hope.
My reason for posting this is to show you how to live a life dedicated to God that encompasses the virtues of faith, obedience, and trust. These pillars form the foundation of a spiritually enriched existence, guiding believers through the trials and triumphs of life.
Patrick Brown was born at Davis Monthan Air Force Base in Tucson, AZ on February 25th, 1949. He became a Christian Believer when he stepped off the plane in Vietnam in 1971. Since that time, he has devoted his life to the Lord through ministering as a Sunday School teacher in various churches in Mississippi. He is a graduate of Exploding Evangelism (EE) and certified as a Gospel Evangelist Trainer. Patrick is a member on staff at Christian Grandfather Magazine in charge of Daily Devotionals. He and his wife, Sherrilyn, enjoy retirement in Ridgeland, MS.
Take heart brother, You can do all things through Christ who strengthens you – strengthens your understanding of your oneness with God. You are one with God just as a drop of water in the ocean is with the ocean. Man or body is part of God. Say to pain: I know what you are, you are neither pain nor a belief of pain, you are simply a belief of life in matter, you are nothing but false argument, a lie of belief without a believer. I am spiritual, I am not material, therefore I am immune from you and am not afraid of you, so get out — get thee behind me, satan. Such argument destroys the belief and effects of pain.
Your Friend- His servant,
Isaac Otieno
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Patrick, I am so proud of you. You are a good friend and I love you and your wife so much. Thank you for putting God first in your life. I am praying for you everyday. May God bless you everyday even through the tough times. This was such a great article to the Christian Grand father magazine. Keep up the good work. I really enjoyed it. And you are a great grandfather. Love ya Judy
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Thank you for your courage to share, Patrick. God’s peace for you and your family.
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I love your testimony to the goodness of God in all things. There is nothing that we should not be willing to trust Him with. As the wife of a Parkinson’s patient, God is our strength. As your neighbor, I see your & Sherrilyn’s investment in the lives of your grandchildren & great grandchildren. May your family reap a spiritual heritage for many generations to come. Keep on writing and sharing the Good News! I love you both!
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