The book of Revelation says that the Lord lives among us and that in His presence there is no pain or sorrow. Belief in this declaration can be easier said than done, especially for those with chronic pain conditions. The pains of the flesh are a heavy burden to carry, and it’s often difficult to trust in God’s plan through tears of physical anguish. If you live with chronic pain, here are three tips to cope from a Christian perspective.
Rest in Jesus
When you’ve strained your body to its maximum and feel weak, what do you do? Chances are, you seek rest before jumping back into physical exertion. When you sustain an injury, your doctors prescribe a period of immobility for healing to occur. These physical concepts of rest apply equally to your spirituality. If you find yourself doubting God’s goodness as a result of physical suffering, perhaps it’s time to get some rest.
In your moments of suffering, what do you turn to? Do you become reliant on medication, homeopathic remedies, and last-resort efforts, or do you seek Jesus? In Matthew 11:28, Jesus said to come to Him when you are weary and find rest in Him. Don’t surrender to your pain, but rather surrender your pain to Him. Call out to the Father and ask Him to relieve you of your pain. More importantly, ask that His will be done should earthly healing not come. Trust that God has a purpose for your pain and pray that He reveals your purpose as you rest in the comfort of His promises.
Science does not negate Jesus
When you experience earthly pain, it’s important to also seek earthly remedies. If you experience chronic pain, go to your computer and perform a search like “neck, back, and spine care in Lawrenceville, NJ” and take the time to find a professional with positive reviews. When you seek medical care, it doesn’t negate your faith in God’s healing. The truth is that we’re all born with spiritual gifts. For some, that gift is healing. Many doctors and medical professionals have this God-given gift and apply it in medicine.
Jesus, the Great Physician, performed miracles and healed countless ailments. His disciples were given the ability to heal others, but not every attempt was successful. Even Paul the Apostle was unsuccessful in healing his own sickness after crying out to God multiple times to take it from him. The important thing to notice in his life of chronic illness is that he acknowledged the grace of God was enough to give him strength.
Dive into The Word
If you haven’t spent time in scripture, it’s time to find a Holy Bible for sale and get to reading. The promises of God are abundant, and His comfort in times of suffering is best found in the word. Not sure where to start? Read the Psalms, particularly Psalm 147. This verse delves into the greatness and kindness of our Lord and His promise to bind our wounds and heal our broken hearts. Turn to 2 Corinthians, Chapter 1, and read of Jesus’ presence in our suffering.
God’s power is made perfect in weakness so that when we are weak, He is made strong. What does all this mean? If you find healing in your lifetime, use your miracle to share God’s mercy and goodness. If you don’t find earthly healing, use your pain as an opportunity to rely on God’s strength. Rest in Jesus, trust your doctors, and open your Bible. When you do these things, pray fervently, and trust in God, no level of earthly pain will overcome you.
Leave a Reply