“May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you the same attitude of mind toward each other that Christ Jesus had.” (Romans 15:5)
The other day I opened my mailbox to find a card. I was so excited—it wasn’t a bill, but a card! When I arrived back at my apartment I opened the card and read it.
As I read the card, I realized that I could react one of two ways. I could be very frustrated and become discouraged, or I could be glad and be encouraged.
On the front of the card it said, “Get Well Soon!”
Let’s look at some facts:
I’m not “sick,” I live with chronic pain.
The doctors have said I have permanent nerve damage.
My injury was in 2000. . .
and still the person who sent the card, sends a “Get well” message?
Now, I have to make a decision. The easiest response would be to get frustrated and mad—“How can this person not understand?” Don’t people realize that I’m not sick?
But, I am to have the same attitude and mind toward others as Christ has. And my philosophy is “Create a Positive Day!” When I stop a moment and consider the positive in receiving a “Get Well Card!” I am encouraged!
Let’s look at some facts here:
Even though I’m not “sick” I do want to get better. Isn’t that why I continue trying each new treatment/medicine available?
Yes, my condition is permanent, but I do have “good days” and even “better days”.
It took time and effort to buy and send me a card—the person thought about me and prayed for me. Now, that is an encouragement.
So, I re-read the card. “Get Well Soon!”. . .
And I was encouraged! Someone was kind enough to send me a card to let me know that they were thinking and praying for me. And God is the one who has the power to make me well, so I’m thankful He’s hearing my name!
Next time I receive a “Get Well Soon!” card, first, I’m going to stop and pray for the person who sent it. Then next, I’m going to send the person a card, letting them know what an encouragement it was to know that they are thinking and praying for me. “Get Well Soon!”—can be an encouraging message—when I make a choice to have a Christ-like attitude.
Prayer: Dear Lord, help me see the encouragement You send my way. Even if people don’t understand my condition, I’m thankful for their prayers and thoughtfulness. Lord, don’t let my frustration be so overwhelming that I miss the wonderful blessings You send.
About the Author:
Rhonda Sawtelle lives with chronic headaches and pain due to failed back surgery syndrome. Her philosophy is “Create a positive day!” She enjoys watching football, digital scrapbooking, and reading. To read more about how Rhonda creates a positive day, even while living with pain, visit her blog: http://createapositiveday.blogspot.com.
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Have you ever found yourself less than excited when you opened up a get well soon card? What conflicting emotions have you experienced?
Chronic Illness Pain Daily Devotionals 