Putting Chronic Pain in Perspective
by John on Mar.02, 2010, under Spiritual Formation
PROCESSING PAIN
It is not uncommon for me to experience debilitating abdominal pain. Pain that radiates from my abdomen to my head and often comes with severe migraine, nausea, and muscle knots between my shoulder blades. I’ve asked God on several occasions to take it away and for now it seems as if this illness is here to stay. Although I do not like any aspect of this illness I have come to appreciate the lessons I’m learning in bouts of infirmity.
Here are a few lessons I’m learning:
- My deepest well being is not dependent on my physical health…but my spiritual rest in Christ.
- Pain teaches me empathy and compassion towards others.
- Prolonged physical pain empties me of myself…keeping my self reliance/independence in check.
- In illness I’ve pondered the brevity of life and have come to value my loved ones above all else – especially my wife.
- The land of gratefulness is where I want to reside …life is too short to carry the subtlety and brazenness of resentment.
- The Apostle Paul’s words sum it up for me; “But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me. For the sake of Christ, then, I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities. For when I am weak, then I am strong.” (II Corinthians 12:9-10)
Another insightful article: A Biblical Perspective on Chronic Pain and Illness
5 Comments for this entry
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November 27th, 2010 on 6:02 PM
Hi Sue –
I still use Scriptural Solutions for my own life and in all of my counseling sessions. I did a series at Lakeview years ago – I called it “How to Stay Sane in an Insane World” I taught on the emphasis of Sensitivity and Satisfaction and Dealing with Inevitable Hurts. The series was recorded on cassette April 21st and 28th of 2002. I also spoke on the topic at a Women’s Encounter Retreat – I believe back in 2009. New Life Central might have that on DVD.Bless you Sue – I always enjoy hearing from you! JP
October 12th, 2010 on 11:03 AM
Hi JP, just stumbled upon this, while trying to find some info on Scriptural Solution for Sensitive People, remember, the barrel and bucket stuff? Didn’t you do a seminar on this several years ago at a NLCC function? I am really in need of some of this, am looking for my book, maybe there’a a way we can do this again at a conference or seminar. I would really like to have some of the info, it was life-changing for me, and I know it was for you, I am feeling really driven to share this with some dear, suffering friends. Let me know if you can help me with some info. thanks, love to Chris, sue
April 13th, 2010 on 8:08 AM
Johnny-I have known how you have suffered through the years my dear brother but have never really understood the debpt of it. To read your perspective on how you feel about this is amazing. It will make me remember too when I have infirmaties that Christ has choosen to leave in my life. Thanks.
March 5th, 2010 on 5:18 PM
Yes – In our pain turning to God in Praise is always a healthy move! Thanks Tina!
March 5th, 2010 on 9:11 AM
Pastor, thankyou for this read and article on biblical chronic illness. i also have a chronic illness and have great compassion for others that do. i often think of Christ when i feel sorry for myself, what pain he endured for ME-ME! Who am I? my heavenly Father has been gentle on me and good to me. Thankyou again for this reminder.