Back into the sunshine

Only two weeks ago, I was preparing myself to lose a very dear friend. We prayed over him, and trusted God that He would work things out for good, but I still traveled through the Valley of the Shadow of Death.
I know each of us owes a life, and I know none of us will get off this world alive, unless Jesus comes back first. It doesn't make it any easier to think about losing your friends and loved ones.
Well, today I'm celebrating! I saw with my own eyes how God handles things. My friend is up walking around, talking, seeing and hearing - even though doctors were afraid he would lose all those things. He spoke to us this morning about concerns for our town, and he was as sharp as ever. He came in to the meeting under his own power. He heard what we said, saw us, and was able to tell us what he thought about things; he remembered details from earlier discussions, and knew details about the projects we're currently working on.
I struggle each day to praise God in all things, good and bad;I have a song that encourages me to do just that - it's one of my favorite songs "I'll Praise You in this Storm" by Casting Crowns; here are the words:

I was sure by now,God, that You would have reached down
and wiped our tears away,
stepped in and saved the day.
But once again, I say amen
and it's still raining
as the thunder rolls
I barely hear You whisper through the rain,
"I'm with you"
and as Your mercy falls
I raise my hands and praise
the God who gives and takes away.

Chorus:
And I'll praise you in this storm
and I will lift my hands
for You are who You are
no matter where I am
and every tear I've cried
You hold in your hand
You never left my side
and though my heart is torn
I will praise You in this storm

I remember when I stumbled in the wind
You heard my cry to You
and raised me up again
my strength is almost gone how can I carry on
if I can't find You
and as the thunder rolls
I barely hear You whisper through the rain
"I'm with you"
and as Your mercy falls
I raise my hands and praise
the God who gives and takes away

Chorus

I lift my eyes onto the hills
where does my help come from?
My help comes from the Lord, the maker of heaven and earth
I lift my eyes onto the hills
where does my help come from?
My help comes from the Lord, the maker of heaven and earth
(words by Mark Hall/music by Mark Hall and Bernie Herms)