“Arthritis,” the doctor said with a sympathetic look.
“I’m sorry,” I said with a nervous laugh. “I thought you said I have arthritis.”
“I did,” she said.
Wait. Arthritis? That is something that only happens to people (insert cough here) older than me. This can’t be the right diagnosis. Maybe I twisted my knee and need to wear a brace for a few weeks. Then I will be good as new.
But the doctor was right. I have arthritis in my knee. And it hurts. I always pictured arthritis to be a dull pain in the muscles of the body. Nope. It’s actually pain coming from the joints. And it’s painful. Did I mention that?
The doctor explained that there is not much that can be done. The pain will come and go. It can could be triggered with changes in the weather, too much activity or not enough. It can also act up when sitting. Or standing. Or walking up stairs. Pretty much anytime.
I did some research and found an “Arthritis Index” on the Internet. It predicts pain levels that may be experienced based on the local weather.
I’m not sure how accurate this tool is but it’s an interesting concept.
What if we had a “life indicator” that would tell us when times of suffering will head our way? We could head those trials off and stop them in their tracks. No more worrying, only strategic planning to keep ourselves free from personal or physical pain.
Wouldn’t that be great?
So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. – Isaiah 41:10 (NIV)
Well, no.
My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness. Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses – 2 Corinthians 12:9 (NIV)
Paul was going through a season of affliction and asked God to take it away. But God did not.
There are two things we can learn from this:
- It is through trials that we find God’s grace.
- It is through trials that we learn to lean on God for his strength.
God’s grace and strength are what we need most.
Here are a few verses to help us when walking through personal or physical pain.
Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. – Romans 12:12 (NIV)
Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He shall direct your paths. – Proverbs 3:5-6 (NIV)
The LORD himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged. –Deuteronomy 31:8 (NIV)