Finding Hope in Philippians for Living With Chronic Pain and Illness Sample

Don’t Settle for Less

For God is working in you, giving you the desire and the power to do what pleases him. —Philippians 2:13

I read something online that gave me pause. It was a post about how we should upgrade our beliefs to match our visions instead of giving up on dreams that may not match our current reality. This was something I’d never considered before. However, upon reflection, I realized that this was exactly what I’d done. I had downgraded my dreams over the past two decades since my battle with chronic pain and illness began. I had stopped believing I could have a productive, happy life.

Like most children, I dreamed of the future. I didn’t think anything could stop me from becoming who I wanted to be and doing everything I wanted to do. My way of thinking changed after my initial diagnosis in 1994. Looking back, I can see how that event led me to expect nothing more than a mediocre life at best, due to my new “normal.” Thankfully, God’s plans never changed. My pain and illness weren’t a surprise to Him. He reminded me that He wasn’t through with me yet.

That social media post was the wake-up call I needed to change my perspective. Chronic pain and illness do not have to steal my hope, joy, or dreams. There is no reason for it to steal yours either.

Each one of us was created for a unique purpose. And as long as we’re here on earth, God is still using us. He has plans for us that no one else can fulfill. We can trust Him and honor Him with our thoughts, words, and actions. While your plans may have changed as a result of chronic pain and illness, His calling on your life has not. We are God’s children. As such, we have no reason to settle for anything less than God’s best for our lives. Years of struggling with chronic pain and illness can take a toll on a person’s mind, body, and spirit. They can be overwhelming. However, God is the Source of all hope. It’s never too late to begin expecting His goodness in your life. You are valuable and precious to Him. Don’t settle for anything less.

Lord, don’t allow me to settle for anything less than what You have lined up for me. Amen.

Did this plan encourage you? It was adapted from Hope Amid the Pain: Hanging on to Positive Expectations When Battling Chronic Pain and Illness (a 60-day devotional journal), published by Ambassador International. Learn more at www.leslielmckee.com.