Illness, chronic illnesses and disease are extremely tough things to go through. They are life changers, affecting each person differently physically, emotionally, mentally and even spiritually. You need to remember that it affects not only the individual, but also their families. So many people feel alone and that God has given up on them or left them. But that is so far from the truth!
“The Lord is the One who will go before you. He will be with you; He will not leave you or forsake you. Do not be afraid or discouraged.””
Deuteronomy 31:8 HCSB
http://bible.com/72/deu.31.8.hcsb
Deuteronomy 31:8 HCSB
http://bible.com/72/deu.31.8.hcsb
Holding on tight to your hope and faith in times of trial is key, but not always the easiest thing to do. It is important for people to know they are not alone and that others live and experience these struggles too.
You can read my post from last week titled Facing The Realities Of Illness and I would love for you to share that post with someone in need…
Chronic illnesses and diseases are so hard to work through for many because on the outside they look well, but on the inside they are so greatly suffering. Remember to have compassion this time of year and always. Remember how to be a friend! When you have a friend or family member suffering it is easy to not really know or see how you could help them or maybe you are afraid to ask. Something as simple as a card or even an email can make the world of difference in the lives of someone dealing with illness and I would like to encourage you to remember to do what God has called us to do – to be there for our brothers and sisters.
We are blessed to be so well taken care of… God has worked many miracles around us (he always does), but these miracles have been amazing. Rhonda and Jason from TheFarmersLamp.com are staying in our cabin and have been more of a blessing than we could have ever imagined! I am on a protocol currently to lower the toxins in my body until my surgery which is causing great unpredictability in my body from one minute to the next. He has provided angel after angel that is caring for us in different ways and has opened the door for us to go to the specialist that we need to.
But so many others are not so lucky! Here are some simple ways you can bless someone you know who is ill or struggling:
- An encouraging card
- A meal (you may need to check to see if the family has any dietary issues)
- Take them on errands, to doctor appointments or run their errands for them
- A small gift or homemade treasure to brighten their day
- Have their children on a play date
- A short visit
- Clean their house
- A financial donation (with illness comes financial burdens)
Some people become too ill for visits and company and you may feel left out in being able to help, but an encouraging card can brighten the spirits of those bed bound in such a big way. To know they are not forgotten nor have upset people because they are too sick for a visit or may need to cancel visit after visit because they are not strong enough or are too sick.
I encourage you to be a light in a dark time for someone you know that is ill or struggling. Pray about the ways you can help and act upon how you are led by the holy spirit. There are so many hurting and struggling people in this world and they often times just need a light during their dark time. Be that light!
Thank you again for your support, love, prayers, kindness, generosity and just being you!
If you enjoyed this, you may enjoy my most recent podcast here.
#TrayerWilderness #PositivelyEncouraging
Paid Endorsement Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through an affiliate link I will make a commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting TrayerWilderness.com and keeping us up, educating, inspiring and running! ♥
Wonderful article. Chronic illness is also something that keeps some people from living off the grid and preparing for disaster. I have a chronic illness and prepare for handling it in a practical manner without the grid.
Thank you.
Agreed Susan! One day at a time, doing what we can do as we can do it, and all things within moderation so that we can be successful without paying the price for overdoing things… It can be done… So thankful you shared your thoughts and my prayers are with you my dear friend because I know too well what your days are like… Love and prayers your way sweet friend!