You want to get rid of the pain, but what are you holding on to that will replace the bitterness, fear, or other emotions? We all need something to hold on to, so make sure it is the right thing. 
“We have come to share in Christ, if indeed we hold our original conviction firmly to the very end” (Hebrews 3:14).
Seeking encouragement, I scrolled through my iPod playlist for music that would uplift. I came upon an import of songs by Twila Paris from her “Where I Stand” CD. The one that became the inspiration for this devotional is titled, “Hold On.”
Take a listen to “Hold On” before reading this if possible, as the lyrics to “Hold On” perfectly explain many of our circumstances.
As we face our pain and illness, one question is in the forefront. What are you holding on to? What choices can we make in the moment?
We are drained and to be consistently intentional in choosing to hold on is also draining. Yet we always have the choice of what we will hold onto.
Will it be the sorrow or the pain, perhaps the anger? What if the better choice, once genuine feelings have been expressed, is to let it be the hope that we have in Christ’s presence and his promises to us? What are you holding on to today that you need to let go of?
Holding on to Jesus, who is our hope, means taking Him at His word no matter our feelings. We choose to clutch the rope of His words that prove that He means what He says.
When sorrow comes to dominate: “I, even I, am He who comforts you” (Isaiah 51:12a).
When pain is relentless: “But as for me, afflicted and in pain—may Your salvation, God, protect me. I will praise God’s name in song and glorify Him with thanksgiving” (Psalm 69: 29-30).
When anger at our lot in life seethes: “Arise, Lord, in Your anger; rise up against the rage of my enemies. [The enemy’s taunts] Awake, my God; decree justice” (Psalm 7:6).
When we need that “thread”: “He reached down from on high and took hold of me; He drew me out of deep waters” (2 Samuel 22:17).
Truly, He is never far from us for his Spirit dwells with us and woos us to a place of rest; letting His Light bring His peace if we can get quiet and cease from striving. Reaching for Him is not a long stretch. Staying quiet while we let Him hold us and while we choose to stay within His hold is a gift He asks us to receive.
Prayer: Yes, Lord. I hold on to You as I recognize You are holding on to me and will never let me slip from Your loving grip of care. Amen.
About the Author:
Lynn Severance is a retired elementary classroom teacher. She lives in Lynnwood, Washington. She writes to encourage others as God has encouraged her during 30 years of living with daily physical challenges. Visit Lynn’s blog and sign up to receive new postings in your email box! http://lynn-severance.blogspot.com.
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What are you holding on to that you should let go of and grasp Jesus instead? During your times of deepest despair in your illness, what temptation can try to hold you captive? How does Christ lift you up and away from that depth where He does not dwell? How are you reminded that He is dwelling with you and holding you close?
Did you have a chance to listen to the beautiful song “Hold On” by Twila Paris? If not, listen now, as this devotional will spring to life as you consider, “What am I holding on to?”
Chronic Illness Pain Daily Devotionals 