I must confess persistent health problems can really discourage us. The Apostle Paul had a continual battle with physical illness of some type. The Bible does not tell us specifically. Therefore we can all identify with his struggle when we deal with our illness. Look at his response, “For this thing (his illness) I besought the Lord thrice, that it might depart from me. He said unto me, my grace is sufficient for you: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I gather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me,” (2 Corinthians 12:8-9).
These health issues can drain us physically and make us realize our limitations. Yet we must realize that God will sometimes use our sickness to teach us more about our relationship with Him.
I have at times experienced such afflictions having rheumatoid arthritis and a heart condition. Those of you who deal with chronic illness know how this can be a burden and at times discouraging. However, God has dealt with me in a wonderful way through it all. He has used my problems to focus my heart on His voice and keep me leaning upon His grace. I would like to be healed, but I could miss what He wanted to say to me. So I have to try to be like Paul, but not as well as he I am sure. He said, “Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that His power of Christ may rest upon me,” (2 Corinthians 12:9b). So let’s pray for each other that we may remind ourselves that God loves and cares for us. That we may face trials in hope, grace, patience and faith. Thank you, Lord for all the circumstances you allow in our lives to teach us about your love and purpose for us.
Dr. David Bouler of Global Faith Ministries, Chattanooga, Tennessee, contributed this column to the Journal Review. He can be reached by email at debouler@aol.com.
