There are times in life when we experience pain, physical pain or emotional pain. It can be difficult to cope.
My mum has arthritis. She has swelling and pain in her knees and hands, which makes it very difficult to move around and to do everyday activities. Being in constant pain is no joke. She finds that the only way she can live is to fight the pain with painkillers; eat and drink healthy, natural foods; keep active and mobile. She is determined not to allow arthritis to stop her living the best life she can, doing things she enjoys and finding happiness in time spent with her family and friends.
I admire my mum. She tries hard not to let things get her down, even though they might sometimes. She keeps fighting back.
There is a lot I can learn from her attitude to life and the problem of pain. My painful issue is singleness. It never used to be an issue, but with age, like arthritis, it has become increasingly painful, mentally and emotionally. For a long time I felt crushed by the hopelessness inside me, but God has shown me in His Word that He can heal pain. Like a painkiller, His Word brings relief. I need to apply it each time the painful thoughts, feelings and situations overwhelm me.
I know from experience that life can be painful at times, but I have also learned to find healing in God’s Word. When you need comfort here is one of my favourite verses that I hope will help you:
“For the Lord comforts His people, and will have compassion on His afflicted ones … see, I have engraved you on the palms of My hands … those who hope in Me will not be disappointed.” (Isaiah 49:13, 16, 23).
Be encouraged.
From the book In the Waiting room – finding hope and inspiration when facing disappointment, by Paula J Campbell.
Copyright ©Paula J Campbell 2016