Tag Archives: Tom Rainwater

28 Jan

How to Be Strong for the Lord

BEYOND THE BASICS | Sonia Rainwater (deceased), edited by Tom Rainwater

[Note: Below is a lesson that Sonia presented to a group of girls at the Northeast Florida College Camp in 2013. After this, her cancer afflicted her for five more years before she passed from this life. She faced that burden with strength and hope. Her example continues to encourage all who witnessed her faith. For that, I’m certain, she would give God all the glory. – Tom Rainwater]

Three years ago, I was diagnosed with colon cancer, which had spread to my liver. Since then, I’ve had major surgery on my colon and two surgeries on my liver. I’ve had lots of chemo treatments during that time. I’ve seen doctors constantly. I’m still fighting a battle against cancer. But thanks to our wonderful God, I’m here today and doing well, and so happy to be speaking to you. My message is: no matter what happens to you, you can still be strong for the Lord. Read More →

06 Apr

Remarrying After the Death of a Spouse, Part 1

BEYOND THE BASICS | Tom Rainwater | Chittenango, New York

Sonia, my dear wife of 24 years, bravely battled colon cancer for 8 years before it took her life. When we learned the disease was terminal, she urged me to remarry after she died. Sonia said, “After I’m gone, please let go of me and move on. It won’t be good for you to remain alone. I’m serious about this. Remarry because you’ll need someone to encourage you. This is what I want for you.” She informed the family of her wish so they’d support any future decision I might make. After Sonia passed away, I heavily mourned the loss. It was hard to accept that I was no longer married to her. After months of grieving, I felt the time had come to stop feeling sorry for myself and start moving forward. Marriage had been wonderful, and I wanted to nurture such a relationship again. So, as awkward as it was, I began thinking about dating. “But how, as a 54-year old widower, do I navigate such an emotional journey?” Read More →

04 Jan

The Grief of Losing a Loved One (Part 2)

BEYOND THE BASICS | Tom Rainwater | Chittenango, New York
(Click here to go to The Grief of Losing a Loved One, Part 1)

Maintaining the proper attitude and outlook is crucial during times of grief. When my wife died, I learned I couldn’t allow a broken heart to rule over me and affect my judgment. Bible study taught me the importance of not losing perspective. In particular, I was moved by the examples of God ordering, under unusual circumstances, the suspension of grief. Read More →

29 Oct

The Grief of Losing a Loved One (Part 1)

BEYOND THE BASICS | Tom Rainwater | Chittenango, New York
(Click here to go to The Grief of Losing a Loved One, Part 2)

Death is universal. If you’re married, one of you will die before the other. Time and death will take away your spouse, your parents, your siblings, your best friends – one at a time. A child or grandchild may pass before you. When a loved one leaves this life, the loss you feel will be profound. Your emotions will go into overdrive while your mind struggles with how to deal with it. Grief becomes a way of life for a while. Know that this experience is common to all people. The struggle with grief is as universal as death. Read More →