“Those who sow in tears will reap with songs of joy.” (Psalm 126:5 NIV)
I took pause when reading this scripture passage. Dealing with chronic pain, I often feel like crying. It’s so easy to become frustrated and just want to give up on life. As Christians, we know that God wants us to live for Him and do His will, but for those of us with pain, we find that our labor for the Lord sometimes brings us to tears.
Before my accident, I existed apart from God. I rarely experienced physical pain and lived a worldly, materialistic, self-centered lifestyle, with God at the bottom of my list of priorities. But through my experience with chronic pain, God has become first and I now live for Him. My suffering and pain keeps me close to God. I have finally come to accept pain as part of me; a part that I must manage and struggle through, but still a part of me.
Sometimes we have to go through difficult times in order to come out better on the other side. And for those of us who live with chronic pain or illness, we can use our pain as a way to spread God’s love. Through His divine Hand, we become blessed to share our experiences, reaching out with His love to others who suffer from chronic pain or illness. Our pain becomes a seed to sow in order to spread His love and care.
Yes, perhaps we are those who must “sow in tears”, but being close to God brings us comfort and peace. And knowing that we have helped and connected with others who also suffer fills our hearts with compassion and love.
Prayer: “Loving Father, to everything there is a season – a time to laugh and a time to weep. When we weep, may we also find ways to sow into the lives of others. Amen.”
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Doris Farley experiences chronic pain that began after an accident. Her circumstances have led to an unexpected, life-changing spiritual journey that has renewed her commitment to our Lord. She thanks God for reaching her and prays that He will reach you also, through the words He gives her to write for you. You may write to her at dorisfarley@aol.com.
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