“My power is made perfect in weakness.” 2 Corinthians 12:9
Her parents already had three daughters and no boys, so the name chosen for the fourth girl was Joni. The Lord had great plans when he presented John and Lindy Eareckson with this baby girl. Joni’s early years were happy times spent in Maryland. The family shared a love for the outdoors. Camping trips, horseback riding, hiking, tennis, and swimming proved that life was good for Joni and her sisters.
But that all changed in July, 1967. Joni had just graduated from high school and was making her college plans. One day she and her sister Kathy decided to get in a quick swim in Chesapeake Bay. When she arrived, she quickly dove into the cool refreshing water, but something went horribly wrong. Although she felt no pain, Joni was unable to swim to the surface. Soon her sister dove in and pulled her from the water. Joni’s body had gone limp. The doctors told Joni that she had broken her neck and fractured her fourth and fifth cervical vertebrae. She had become a quadriplegic, paralyzed from the shoulders down! In place of her bright future, Joni was facing agonizing months and years in rehabilitation and fighting for her life.
The next two years Joni spent her days in splints, braces, and tied to racks. She often hoped that her life would end. However, with the help of many caring friends, Joni began to turn her thoughts to the Lord. She began to ask if this new life was what God really wanted for her. She began to read and study the Bible like never before, and she spent her lonely days having long talks with her favorite friend, Jesus. Over time Joni learned to care for herself on a limited basis. She even learned how to paint by holding brushes in her teeth. Soon her artwork became very popular. She always signed her paintings PTL, meaning “Praise the Lord.” Her ministry grew into song recordings and book writing, and in 1982 she married Ken Tada who now manages her ministry. Fear struck Joni again in 2010 when she was diagnosed with breast cancer, which her Lord led her safely through.
Joni has written over 70 books, recorded many albums, appeared on television shows, and starred in her own biographical movie. She has given hope to many whose lives were filled with hopelessness. Despite living the rest of her life in a wheelchair, Joni has used her talents for the Lord. Truly God had big and wonderful plans for her, and today she would gladly tell you exactly what those plans were! PTL!
Dear Jesus, we come to you for healing and comfort for those in need. We realize there are many people whose bodies are broken and hurting. Place your healing hand on them and restore them to health. In the name of Jesus. Amen.
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