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| photo by Jean Ann Williams |
The Psalmist writes:
The
steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord: and he delighted in his way.
Though he fall, he shall not be utterly cast down: for the Lord upholdeth him with
his hand. Psalm 37:23, 24
I’ve often wondered what would have pushed my son,
Joshua, so far that he resorted to suicide. I understand there were problems with
his medications for the type he took can and did cause suicidal thoughts. But
before that. Before Joshua ever took the prescription drugs, he had suffered
all his life with a weakened immune system. This made him ill all his life.
I know Joshua was discouraged with his broken body.
For twenty-five years he suffered with pain. Did he feel as I do at times when
my body grows weak and in need of healing?
Over the last few months, I haven’t felt well. After
a while, it wears thin, I’m sure you would agree when you’ve felt not your
best. I don’t know about you, but my aches and pains that go on and on soon make
me feel unchristian. I get cranky. I battle impatience. I forget my blessings,
and have to make an effort to praise God for the grace He has given to me each
day.
Recently, I read the above verses and knew I should
share my story so as to encourage others not to give up when poor health
strikes. Keep believing in Lord God. Keep trusting in His powerful ways.
If we’re walking in a way that delights our Lord, as
the scripture teaches, God knows we’re struggling. He will hold us up in ways
we may not understand until we look back and go, “Aha!”
And don’t be afraid to ask the Lord to guide our
decisions to help ease our discomforts and pains, for our bodies are the temple
of the Holy Spirit, and God wants to guide us along the path of illness. All to
the Glory of His name.
Father
God, please continue to encourage us through Your Holy Spirit and Your written
Word. In Jesus’s name. Amen.
Until next time . . . continue to lean on the Lord in all kinds of trouble.
