Spiritual guidance powered by AI and grounded in Scripture
Your Question:
How do I find comfort in a chronic illness?
Answer:
As someone who has walked alongside many individuals struggling with chronic illnesses, I've seen firsthand the impact it can have on their lives. While it's natural to feel overwhelmed and uncertain, I believe that a chronic illness can actually reveal the kind of people we are. It's in these moments of vulnerability that we have the opportunity to sacrificially care for others, celebrating a love for life, both theirs and ours, as well as the God who sovereignly gives life. In my experience as a pastor, I've seen that people with chronic illnesses can often find comfort in their faith. Praying big prayers, like knowing the love of Christ or looking more like Jesus, can bring a sense of peace and purpose. It's not about seeking out suffering, but about finding ways to trust in God's sovereignty, even when we can't alleviate our physical pain. As the Bible says, "We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair" (2 Corinthians 4:8). For those struggling with chronic illness, I want to encourage you to look beyond the physical symptoms and seek spiritual comfort. Recognize that you are a spiritual being, and fundamentally so. We all live in the presence of God, and acknowledging this can bring a sense of peace and hope. As I always say to my congregation, "We can't always change the way we feel, but we can change the way we think about it." By focusing on our spiritual core, we can find contentment and even joy in the midst of long-term, small steps of faith and obedience.
Sources:
introduction biblical ethics
robertson mcquilkin
depression
edward welch
practicing the way
john mark comer
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