“Your faith in God is a rock to those whose world is being rocked by adversity.”
Thoughts from daily Bible reading for today – April 11, 2021
Jesus said, “This sickness will not end in death. No, it is for God’s glory so that God’s Son may be glorified through it. John 11:4
My brief COVID sickness is nothing compared to those whose symptoms linger or who may feel trapped by a chronic illness. The physical body can be extremely demanding. It can writhe in pain, convulse from seizures, sweat from fever, ache from infection, and fatigue from fighting disease. Some feel so badly, they are ready to go home to heaven. Even harder is watching one you love wilt away day by day. Illness can be so hard, but a meaningful moment for God’s glory.
The Lord uses sickness to draw people to each other and to Himself. A sick child causes mom and dad to come together on their knees on behalf of their precious one. Elderly parents are an invitation for adult children to spend time together and to work together for the betterment of their parent’s quality of life. Sickness can reveal a heart of giving or a heart of taking. As we serve the sick, those who need Jesus see His love in action. Love is honored to serve the sick.
“The strong spirit of a man sustains him in bodily pain or trouble, but a weak and broken spirit who can raise up or bear” (Proverbs 18:14, The Amplified Bible).
Are you struggling with sickness? If so, seek to experience the intimacy of God’s glory in the middle of your illness. Your afflictions can be eclipsed by His glory. Similar to the stamina of a mother caring for a needy child, His glory engulfs your soul with energy to endure chronic pain. The sweet spot of His sweet Spirit provides security in your sickness. Christ’s peace guards your heart and mind to get through intense health issues. God’s glory gives you hope and healing.
Is someone you love suffering from an illness? How can you glorify God in your love for them? Start with a simple prayer for the Holy Spirit to strengthen your sick friend by His grace and love. Share Scripture with them, such as Psalm 59:16-17 for comfort and peace. Your faith in God is a rock to those whose world is being rocked by adversity. Be available to support them by caring for their children or raising funds to pay for their medical bills. Prepared to give a reason for their hope in Him, God’s people love and serve like Jesus, glorifying Him.
“But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect” (1 Peter 3:15).
Prayer
Heavenly Father, use my illness or the sickness of a loved one to bring glory to my Savior Jesus Christ.
Application
Who can help care for me as I care for a loved ones chronic illness?
Related Reading
John 9:2-3; 2 Corinthians 3:18, 4:6; Colossians 4:6; Hebrews 1:3
Start the new year with Boyd’s newest 365 day devotional book: Seeking God’s Heart
Worship Resource
4-minute video: Ryan Stevenson:
Donate
If you are blessed by these daily devotionals please prayerfully consider a donation to support Wisdom Hunters Resources. We are trusting the Lord for His provision.
Download our app!
