As all with chronic conditions know, it can be very difficult to submit to God's will and plan for not just our lives as a whole, but for daily disappointments. Plans are subject to change without notice due to flares. Seemingly simple daily tasks can sap all the energy we have. Serving God may seem impossible as we cannot serve in the typical ways. Yet, God has a plan!
How will we respond to the disappointment and pain? Disappointment is not a sin; our response to disappointment can be. Recent weeks have placed me in the trenches of this battle. It is a daily, no, moment by moment choice to rejoice instead of complain.
The ladies Bible study that meets in my home has been studying Philippians over the past many months using Carrie Gaul's study of Joy in the Midst. What a blessing it has been! (Side note: She recently taught several lessons on suffering on Revive Our Hearts which are an incredible encouragement.)
Currently, we are studying Philippians 2:14-15. These verses give instruction not to murmur or dispute. Why? to shine as lights in the world. Do you realize that our response to suffering can shine God's light through us in a dark world of hurting people? Had you ever considered that a joyful response to chronic illness may be God's mission field for you? As a young person, I longed to be a missionary for Him someday and was willing to go anywhere for Him. Will I also be willing to go to weakness for Him?
v. 16 shows how we receive the strength for this joy and gratitude - through His Word. (Also see Psalm 107:20.) What a motivation not to complain and dispute with God over His plan for our life today!
How can we be content in weakness? Philippians 4:10-14 shows that we can be content through Jesus Christ. We often use the verse "I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me" as a catchall verse. Yet, in context, it is about being content. Being content is a choice, but can only be done in Christ's strength.
Throughout Philippians, Paul continually praises God even for His chains simply because Christ is being preached. What if we changed our perspective from temporary pain and disappointment to seeing that God may have called us to this pain to shine His light in places where we couldn't otherwise. He uses weakness. Is that not amazing and something to rejoice?
It really comes down to a trust issue. Will we trust that God knows best and has a purpose for each thing that comes our way? Will we trust that He can be glorified in our life of weakness and disappointment? Will we actively seek to love and glorify Him through whatever He brings?
The choice must be made daily. What will you choose today?
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