(Hebrews 12:12, 13).
This summer is not going as planned. We had hopes of taking some trips as well attending various local events, but my major regression with back problems has changed all that. So far my summer has consisted of more pain and physical therapy than pleasure.
My physical therapy includes various strengthening exercises to build up the back muscles since surgery and medications are not options for me. I see some spiritual applications in this process. Just as I am strengthening my back muscles, God is using the difficulties and pain in my life to strengthen my faith and walk with Him. If I continually apply the truths of His Word, reminding myself that He is in total control, has a plan, and will bring me through any and every moment, my “muscles” of faith, peace, hope, and others will be strengthened.
My back muscles are also tight in places so I have stretching exercises to do as well. In the same way, God uses trials to stretch my faith. I can grasp too tightly to the things I think I need, including certain abilities or enjoyable experiences and opportunities. God is stretching me to release these things, reminding me of what is truly important.
I will have to do these back exercises for the rest of my life. I will constantly have to monitor them and adjust them to my changing conditions. I also need to do my spiritual exercises daily, being consistent at staying in God’s Word, praying, and abiding in Christ. I am hoping and praying that before too much longer I can take some trips we planned and enjoy the remainder of the summer. But whatever happens, I know that if I allow God to strengthen and stretch me, I will be in the best shape to face whatever lies ahead.
Prayer: Heavenly Father, please use the pain and disappointments in my life to strengthen my walk with you. Thank you that as I am stretched and strengthened, I will not be spiritually disabled, but rather healed. Amen.
I haven't endured much physical pain, but I have gone under so much emotional turmoil in the last year. I know I will need medication for the rest of my life and have to make decisions for my personal mental health needs.
ReplyDeleteThat is a great prayer, thank you for sharing.
(PS- my story is at http://dylananddepression.blogspot.com )
Dylan, thank you so much for sharing. I share similiar mental/emotional struggles and am unable to take any medications for it. It is a constant battle but God is faithful. Keeping my mind filled with Scriptures to counter all the negative thoughts is what helps the most - God's Word truly is living and active. You have a great blog. I pray God's blessing in your life. It is wonderful for me to see your commitment to and trust in God at such an early stage of your life and I know in faith that God is going to use your weaknesses for great things for Him. "He ransoms me unharmed from the battle waged against me." Psalm 55:18
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