Chronic pain isn’t something to celebrate—but it becomes a gift when it drives you into the arms of Jesus and turns your suffering into a platform for His Gospel.
SHAUNA: This is Shauna, on Joni Eareckson Tada: Sharing Hope. Whether you experience chronic pain or not, I know this message from Joni is going to encourage you. Lean in now and be blessed.
JONI: Chronic pain is nothing to celebrate. The only way I can “rejoice in the suffering” of pain is to let it drive me into the arms of Jesus. Honestly, it’s the only way I can welcome the trial of pain. Because in it, I find great joy in identifying with my suffering Savior, the Man of Sorrows. And that is really the only thing worth celebrating. But I’m also able to celebrate the way my chronic pain sets the stage for sharing the Gospel. And if you are in pain, you can do the same thing. So, in what ways might God use your chronic condition to advance His Gospel? Well, just think of the people He places in your path and think of your response to them.
You might be in pain, but is there a family member or a friend who regularly helps you? Do you pause to thank them? Man, I know I am so grateful to the people who help me deal with pain, whether they pray for me, take me to appointments, stretch my hurting back, my neck. So, please make a habit of saying thank you to others who tend to your needs. I mean, coming from you in your condition? That’s going to speak volumes!
Next, think about the doctors and nurses, and even your pharmacist who might be influenced by your attitude or even your testimony. Take a minute to jot a thank you note to them. Maybe to your surgeon or physical therapist. And be sure to include an encouraging scripture. Another thing: you know, your bed, your walking cast, your crutch, or your wheelchair – oh, my goodness – it provides such a powerful platform for worship and intercession. God loves it when He looks down and He sees His people offer Him a sacrifice of praise from a walking crutch or a cast or on a bed of affliction. And if you’re in pain, both you and I know, it ain’t easy to praise the Lord with a happy heart. But when you do, nothing turns up the wattage on God’s glory higher. Because He can recognize that your praise is costing you something, and that makes your worship all the more precious in His eyes. So, remember, your pain is a platform for praise, that’s a sacrifice. It is only through Jesus that we’re able to even offer a sacrifice of praise. Why? Because Jesus was God’s sacrifice for us. Is it asking too much, then, for us to sacrifice mere words? Never!
And here’s another thing. Rather than pour out your troubles to everyone, ask God to connect you with one or two praying friends with whom you can honestly share your anguish. Let them carry your burden, rather than complain to them. Remember, most of the Bible verses written about praise were penned by men and women who faced absolutely intolerable situations. So, make it a point not to complain but instead, ask God to help you see every opportunity as a chance to share the love of Jesus. Friend, these things really do take the edge off your pain. Honestly, they do. I mean, just to know there’s a purpose, a divine purpose; just to know that God is observing and giving you strength; just to know that your Savior also suffered and that He understands. All these things can lighten the load of pain. I know it sure does for me.
SHAUNA: We want to hear from you today, friend, especially if you struggle with chronic pain. So, visit us at joniradio.org and send us your prayer needs, would you? Because we want to support you in prayer at Joni and Friends. And while you’re at joniradio.org, take advantage of all the free resources and programs we have for you there. You really do have friends at Joni and Friends!
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