A few years ago I was exposed to large amounts of chlordane, a poison. A short time later, very strange and frightening symptoms appeared on my body; soon I was completely incapacitated. I spent all my waking hours in prayer and study.
The predominant message that came to me through this prayerful work was that God is "I AM." I looked up everything in the Bible and the works of Mrs. Eddy where these two words are used. There were many passages. All were wonderful and supportive, but one in particular meant everything to me. It reads: "Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness. Behold, all they that were incensed against thee shall be ashamed and confounded: they shall be as nothing; and they that strive with thee shall perish. Thou shalt seek them, and shalt not find them, even them that contended with thee: they that war against thee shall be as nothing, and as a thing of nought" (Isaiah).
The entire chapter was my anchor, my support, and my strong tower throughout this experience. It afforded me tremendous strength and genuine courage to go forward. It even brought tears to my eyes—tears of joy and gratitude—for God's great love for me and for this opportunity to prove His allness, His goodness, and His omnipotence. Instead of being an experience of suffering, it was one of vivid inspiration and liberating joy—joy for actually being God's image and likeness, His beloved child, safe and secure.
