06/13/2026
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It robs energy, finances, opportunities, and abilities that many people take for granted. Those who live with chronic pain or illness often face daily decisions that others never have to consider. They must carefully balance what needs to be done with what they are actually able to do.
When someone with chronic illness declines an invitation, adjusts their schedule, or makes choices that others may not understand, it is not necessarily fear, weakness, or being overly cautious. Often, it is simply wise stewardship of the body and strength God has entrusted to them. They are learning to live within real limitations while trusting a faithful Savior.
Yet as difficult as these trials can be, our hope is not found in perfect health, easier circumstances, or pain-free days. Our hope is found in Jesus Christ.
Jesus lovingly calls the weary and burdened to Himself: "Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest"(Matthew 11:28). He is the source of true rest for tired souls and weary bodies.
The Lord has also promised to faithfully provide what we need for each day. While our strength may be limited, His grace is not. We must prayerfully discern how we spend our time and energy, sowing to the Spirit and refusing to grow weary in doing good (Galatians 6:8-9).
There will be days when discouragement tempts us to complain, quit, or run from the burdens we carry. But Scripture calls us to stand firm in Christ's strength, remembering that "Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial" (James 1:12).
Today, we can receive fresh grace from our compassionate High Priest, who understands every weakness and every struggle. Because of Him, we can "draw near to the throne of grace" and find mercy and help for today's needs (Hebrews 4:15-16).
Most importantly, we remember that this is not the final chapter of our story. The aches, limitations, diagnoses, and disappointments of this present life are temporary. A day is coming when faith will become sight, suffering will give way to glory, and every tear will be wiped away by our Savior.
So today we press on, not because we are strong, but because Christ is faithful. We keep our eyes fixed on eternity and echo the words of Paul: *"I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith"* (2 Timothy 4:7).
For those of us walking through chronic illness, let us not be consumed by today's pain. Let us look beyond the struggles of the present moment to the promises of God and the glory that awaits His children. The best is yet to come.
Grace for today. Strength for the journey. Glory in eternity.
Bill and Linda Simmons