Life with Chronic Pain and Illness
Life with chronic pain and illness is something no one is likely to sign up for or wish for when they’re growing up. Yet it’s what many of us now find ourselves living with on a daily basis. From the outside, we may look the same as anyone else. The difference comes from what can’t be seen on the inside. So many spoons (energy) are used to maintain that “perfect” persona others see, instead of the pain, brain fog, etc.
Can lessons be learned in any situation? I believe the answer is yes. As Christians, we’re not promised a trouble-free (or pain-free) life. We’re told that we will experience trials. God will be with us. He has a plan for us, and He’s using everything for His purposes and our ultimate good. (Though, I admit, that latter part is sometimes hard to envision at times.)
In the Bible, Paul experienced many trials, but instead of pushing him away from God, it brought them closer. He learned to be content in the Lord, in any situation, knowing that nurturing this relationship was key.
Over the years that I’ve been on this journey, the one thing that has been constant is knowing that God is still good. He’s still in control. Do I ever question Him as to why I’m in so much pain, not healed, etc.? You bet! That’s a human response. But I also try to remind myself daily of the little blessings I may otherwise overlook. I’ve always been leery to speak up or rock the boat, but I’ve learned to get better at advocating for myself. These days, it’s a little easier for me to share my own story and struggles with others, as I’ve felt God encouraging me to do so, as a way of reminding them (and myself) that they’re not alone. Someone sees them and “gets” it.
I’ve also clearly witnessed some truths about God:
- God sees me.
- He hears me.
- He’s not going to leave me or tell me He’s too busy for me.
- He’s won’t be disappointed when (not if!) I need to cancel plans.
- He loves me just as I am.
(And those truths are true for you, too!)
Is there anything you've learned about God since the start of your journey with chronic pain and illness? Click To Tweet Feel free to share them in the comments.
I hope you have a blessed, low-pain day.
If you’d like to read more Life with Chronic Pain and Illness posts, click here.