When someone with good intentions presents the latest new cures for your illness, how do you respond with grace and not resentment? Michele shares.
“Listen to advice and accept discipline, and at the end you will be counted among the wise. Many are the plans in a person’s heart, but it is the Lord’s purpose that prevails.” (Proverbs 19:20-21)
Almost daily I receive messages from someone who suggests I try something that has helped them. Knowing they are well meaning, I appreciate all the suggestions; although I feel that they do not understand my chronic illnesses; for what may help one, does not mean it will help me too. Even when I’ve tried the latest “fad” or treatment, months later my body becomes immune to the positive effects it once had upon me.
No one wants to find some new cures for what ails me more than me! For 27 years I have tried almost everything that is out there. Some things have helped–for a time, and others have actually made me feel worse. If I don’t seem all that appreciative or excited about something that someone has recommended it has nothing to do with the fact that they are trying to help me. I may be a little cautious because of the 27-year track record of all the things I have tried.
Currently, I am on a quest to a healthier me. This quest is first and foremost placing God and His leading first. Next, realizing that my body belongs to God, through His leading I am trying to make wiser and healthier decisions as to what I put into, on and do with my body.
So, as I continue to receive all the suggestions from others regarding my health, I will welcome them with a gracious heart as I pray for God’s leading on whether or not I should heed to these well-meaning helps.
Prayer: Dear Lord, help me to realize that most of the time when someone sends me a suggestion of something that may help with my chronic illness that they are really saying, “I care about your pain/health and I would like to help you”. Help me to weigh everything through You Lord, and wait for Your leading.
About the author:
Michele Williams along with her husband of 38 years live nestled in a mountain community in eastern Pennsylvania. They have a beautiful grown daughter, caring son-in-law, an awesome teenage grandson and three furry children. Through the years Michele has been involved in various ministries including: pastor’s wife, teacher, public speaker, counselor, writer, children’s, women’s, and wellness ministries. Michele has experienced various life challenges including living with multiple chronic illnesses since 1985. Some of those include: Fibromyalgia, Osteoarthritis, Interstitial cystitis, IBS, Asthma, and Sleep Apnea. Michele has an encouraging and informative blog, at http://www.beelieveyoucan.net
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How do you react when others suggest you try one of the many new cures or something that they have read about or have used and have helped them?
Let’s worship! Yolanda Adams belts out, “Battles Not Yours” reminding us that God is in control of it all, including the medications, the costs, all of it! Can we hear an “Amen”?
Chronic Illness Pain Daily Devotionals 