August 5, 2011
Last night was a rough night. I threw up twice. The second time was a bit harsh and dry, which made me cough a lot to the point that I ended up losing my voice, which is an interesting experience. I am unable to speak at this stage. I nudge my head down and up for yes and no. Try to whisper a bit here and there. It is an incredible experience. Have you ever listened to your voice? or thanked the Lord that you are able to clearly speak and be heard? The experience I am currently going through is priceless. It is making me realize how many things I have taken for granted. Think about it. You have a healthy body, able to move around freely (no IV machine following you around), a clear voice, able to eat what you want and taste it like it is … yet, you take it all for granted. Dr. Dotty, who is currently with the Lord, was a missionary and spent a lot of time in Lebanon. When he retired, he used to visit us in Houston and stay at our house. One morning when we were eating breakfast, I asked him for some words of wisdom. He said, Satan has blinded us where we no longer realize how “fragile” life is. We think everything that we have is so firmly rooted forever and thus take it all for granted, while, everything is very fragile and can tip over at any moment. Dr Adrian Rogers once said, if you have not yet faced hard times, keep on living, for surely they will come, however, will you be ready for them? So the thought that came to mind this morning is, if everything is so fragile and can tip over at any moment, I better have a foundation to hold me strong when things start falling apart. Accordingly, what is my foundation? my health? Job? Economy? Financial stability? I must have a solid foundation that will hold me strong when everything around me tips over, because it will, sooner or later. To me the answer was clear. It is my faith in my living God and knowing that He is full control of everything that happens to me. I peacefully rest in this truth. So my question to you is, what is your foundation? what will hold you strong when everything around you starts falling apart? have you tested it? are you sure it will work when you need it most?
Sami Lahoud 
Hi Sami,
I just want to let you know that since I found out about your illness last week, you Jacqueline, your kids, your mom, and all your extended family remain in my prayers. Your reaction to this sudden change in circumstances is so admirable. Everything you have learned and taught to the youth over the years is being put to the test and you are really letting your light shine for the Lord. I pray that the holy spirit will continue to sustain your strength both physically and spiritually. You have an army of prayer warriors on your side and I know they will be with you every step of the way. When faced with hardship, it was so difficult and humbling to recieve help; but I do believe in our weakness, we become stronger. I hope you’ll get your voice back today and that your side effects will subside. Stay Strong Sami!!!
Sami,
Your words are such an encouragement to all of us. We are seeing God through your trial. He will be glorified.
Sami, a few days ago I came across a blog called “Coffee with Jesus” it is a devotional blog.
http://coffee-with-jesus.blogspot.com
Today’s devotion was about “Shouting to the Lord” you say you lost your voice but you can still Shout Praises to the Lord in your heart.
“Be strong and take courage”
You are in our prayers..
Sami – You’ve successfully managed many challenges at work and I’m confident you will successfuly manage this one too! Thanks for the voice message… I think about you all the time. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
You’re gonna cause me to start studying again. But your words brought a very old song to mind.. “My hope is built on nothing less than Jesus blood and righteousness. I dare not trust..but wholly lean on his name”. Slightly paraphrased, but I need to be sure of my foundation!
Sami, My Brother!… Your faith never failed you habibi, when you needed the Lord the most, back in 1973, He was there for you… As you know and as you preach, there is nothing more powerful than praying. You don’t have to have a voice to be heard by God, all what you need is your heart and soul. Your unshaken faith along with your strong spirit, will take you through mountains of physical pain. Your faith and spirit will always stay strong and unharmed… I read every sentence of your blog, and I feel every word of wisdom you say. It is a wake-up call for all of us, we should sit, relax, and evaluate our priorities… God willing, when you feel better “hopefully soon” I will come with Josette and Joy-Jude to see you and let the cousins meet and appreciate the beautiful gift of family.
My love to you my Brother, Please stay strong and keep your faith. We are all praying for you, from Miami to Lebanon.
We all here in Miami (including Eby and his family and my Mom), send our love to you, Jacqueline, Wadad, Jeanette and Samir.
The same to Wadad your Mom, Lamia, Rima and there families.
I love you.
Thanks for the devotion, Sami. We miss you terribly here in Dubai – work has lost a lot of its fun and I miss your fellowship and accountability. All the Ralstons are praying for you and your family.
I love you brother.
Sami Habibé, comme tu nous l’as demandé, nous prions tous les jours que le bon Dieu fait, pour te donner le courage afin de poursuivre ton combat. Hoda, Sami, Saïd, Roueida, Ghada et moi-même te souhaitons une remise à pied dès que possible entouré des tiens.
Amour, Jouhaina Hobeika Haddad.