“Since God had planned something better for us so that only together with us would they be made perfect.” (Hebrews 11:40)
No matter how disabled we are, no matter in how much pain and suffering, God still has a plan for us. He is a God of peace who will equip us with everything good for doing His will, as it says in the verse above.
Oftentimes, I feel quite useless in my disabilities. I can’t work, can’t go to college anymore, and can’t even go to the store to buy groceries for myself. This verse reminds me that I am not useless; that God, does, in fact, have a plan for me.
We must remember this. In all of life’s difficulties, we must listen for God’s direction. He may want us to write devotionals, He might want us to send cards to people to cheer them up; He will use our gifts, which we all have, to His glory.
“Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. . . ” (Hebrews 12:1).
Even though the war is difficult, we must run with perseverance. We must listen for God’s plan for us and finish the race.
Prayer: Dear Lord Jesus, please help us to hear You and to do Your will. We are the afflicted, yes, but Your plan for us is even greater! Help us to know what You would have us do. We love You and thank You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
About the Author:
Wendy Spurling lives in Northeastern Massachusetts. She lives alone, but is surrounded by friends. She loves writing, reading, and using the computer. She also loves American Sign Language! But most of all, she loves the Lord. If you need to be saved, and are ready for it, please contact her at inhim4life@comcast.net and she will help you. Please contact her also if you need prayer or just need to “talk.”
I tried the link to Wendy and it does not work. Please help me find her website, I really enjoyed this artical. Lifts up my spirit and reminds me that even in pain and my limitationd God can use me.
Wendy:
This is such a good reminder for people like you and me who can get discouraged about our role in life. I love the book, “When God Weeps”, written by Joni Eareckson Tada and Steven Estes. In it, Joni talks about those with a chronic illness who feel that they are so isolated that they can’t possibly serve God by ministering to others. She responds to this by saying that the angels are watching, and when they (we) keep trusting in God, the angels glorify Him. It shows them that He keeps His promises to His children here on earth, and comforts them so that they can persevere in trials. Isn’t that great?!
Wendy,
Thank you so much for this reminder. It is so beautifully and compassionately written. I am so grateful that God is in control and know the plans he has for me (Jeremiah 29:11-13)
God Bless,
Carol
Thanks for your reminder, Wendy, that we are not alone & that God has something better for us. In recent years, my heroes have included Job & Paul who lived w/ his thorn in the flesh. I’m inspired by their endurance & perseverence in faith despite physical & other problems. God bless u.
The Hopekeeper Group in Elmwood, IL, led by me has not met there for a long time & can be removed from the HK group list.
Thanks to Lisa & ALL THE VOLUNTEERS who keep & make Rest Min such a vital ministry for us w/ chronic illness. God bless u all!