Pain

I’ve been dealing with a lot of pain recently. (Mostly joint pain.) It is such a distraction that my creativity is stifled. Thus no new songs or poems or blogs for the last few weeks.

Like most who deal with chronic pain, I have sometimes asked “Why?” But I’ve come to the conclusion that there doesn’t have to be a reason. Let it go through its process and see where it leads.

Pain has a way of focusing my attention on myself. But lest I become too self-centered, I must thrust myself on Christ. He who suffered more than I ever will understands and sustains me. As the apostle Paul pled for deliverance from his ailment, as recorded in II Corinthians 12:8-9, the Lord spoke to him saying, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Well, that’s good news. There can be a positive outcome to my misery. Focusing on Jesus will always be beneficial to my soul. And those around me get to see God’s power.

And another good result is that I am learning to identify with others who experience pain. I pray for them and with them – understanding the difficulties and dilemmas that they face.

I may be delivered from my pain. I may not. But either way, my tested faith will become stronger, my sympathy for others more sincere, and my longing for Christ more passionate.

How about you? Are you in pain today? If so, where will it lead you?