Hope Restored Ministries

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Good morning HRM and Friends

LIFE THROUGH PAIN!

Pain is an awful experience. You know what I am talking about if you have suffered at its hands. A few years ago, I woke up with my right shoulder hurting so severely that I had to make an appointment with my primary care physician that same morning. On a scale of 1 to 10 with 10 being the highest, my pain level was about 12. My doctor sent me to a specialist who diagnosed my problem. He gave me pain medication, but when it wore off the pain was so intense that I was up the entire night. I could not find relief regardless of what I did. I sat there anxiously waiting for daybreak with the hope that my doctor would prescribe me some stronger pain medication.

I understand why some people get addicted to opioids. I have met people who live in constant pain. The frequency and intensity of their pain is so unbearable and overwhelming that all they can do is cry. One of the most dreadful things about having an illness like cancer or another debilitating disease is the level of pain that some people have to endure. Whether it's physical or emotional pain, it is challenging to stay focused and not lose hope. Psalm 34:18 reminds us that ”The LORD is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit.” Knowing that God cares, sometimes serves as an impetus to hang in there.

I know that not all pain is created equal. There are some types of pain that medication does not relieve. The loss of a spouse, child, friend, family member, co-worker, or just someone we knew, leaves a vacuum, a void that nothing seems to heal. Job talked about that type of pain when his children were all taken from him, and he was struck with sores and boils. What kept him going was his trust in God. Here is what he says, ”At least I can take comfort in this: Despite the pain, I have not denied the words of the Holy One” (Job 6:10).

You may be experiencing unbearable pain, or you may know someone who lives in constant pain because of an illness or loss. I know it's not easy, so I encourage you to be faithful. Tim Keller once said, ”One of the main ways we move from abstract knowledge about God to a personal encounter with him as a living reality is through the furnace of affliction.”

Another saying that helps us make sense of life through pain says, ”Often, we endure trials seeking God’s deliverance from them. Suffering is painful for us to endure or to see those we love endure. While our instinct is to flee trials, remember that even in the midst of suffering, God’s will is being done.” Paul Chappell.

The Apostle Paul had an illness or some physical situation that caused him severe pain, here is what he says in 2 Corinthians 12:9-10, ”And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ’s sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong.” Living through pain will test and try your faith, so I encourage you to find comfort in these words. ”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).

Have a hopeful Monday!

Dean & Nisa

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7100 Foxcroft Dr.
Frederick, MD
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4th and 5th Saturdays we volunteer at Frederick Mission