This week we’ve discussed invisibility; having pain that doesn’t show, being invisible because of your pain, being invisible to your doctor, and finally being invisible to your insurance company. We’re going to wrap up this week by asking a kind of backwards question.
Although we can see God’s creation, we don’t normally talk about seeing God in a physical form today. That would make Him invisible to us, but have you ever had the feeling that your pain has made you invisible to God? I’ve spoken to many chronic pain patients who prefer to be alone during a pain crisis; not wanting to see anyone while they wait it out. Does that include God? Is He not listening because He just can’t. or won’t, see you? Did He allow you this pain, and then leave you? For many, the whole idea of pain and suffering is reason enough to not believe in a Loving God. How about you? Are you as invisible to God as He is to you? Do you feel your pain, but not His presence?
If I focus only on my pain forgetting that my loving Father is there to help me through it can seem He is invisible. But He isn't it is just that I chose not to see Him. When I withdraw in my pain I try always to pray or talk to God to take my mind off of the pain. He is there and He doesn't wish for us to suffer pain yet sometimes it is through and because of our pain that we can be what He needs us to be and we can serve a purpose be it giving hope or encouragement or a greater understanding of what others are going through. It should draw us closer to God not further away.
ReplyDeleteSo well said, Michelle. By chance (not really, He works in such great ways) I received a daily reading today from 1 Peter 4:12-13. In it, Peter says, "Dear friends, do not be surprised at the painful trial you are suffering, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice that you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed." A perfect reminder, and a perfect fit to your mindset. Thank you and have a most blessed weekend. Tom
ReplyDeleteHello Brother Tom
ReplyDeleteMy wife has been going through some severe back and leg pain for the past month or so. She has a high tolerance of pain but this is starting to get to her. She's under a doctors care but so far nothing seems to be helping. So far it hasn't hindered her faith in God.
It's been my observation over the years that women seem to handle pain better than men. ??
~Ron
Ron, if it were up to men to have children, humanity would have ended eons ago! Women have an inner strength that cannot be measured, of that I am certain.
ReplyDeleteAs for your dear wife, it sounds like she is battling sciatica, which is a most painful condition. There are as many causes as there are supposed cures; I will keep her in my prayers. I am glad she doesn't fall into the category of someone who blames God for their sufferings. If she ever wants to know exactly what I have been through with my sciatic issues, what has worked and hasn't over the years, I am always available.
Enjoy your weekend, God bless.
Tom
I thankfully havnt had to deal with a lot of physical pain,I feel for those who do. Jesus suffered on the cross tho,I know god didnt forget jesus,so why would he forget us.I am following your blog, you are welcome to follow mine as well, Blessings jane
ReplyDeleteThank you sir thomas, for following my blog,I appreciate that so much, Blessings jane
ReplyDeleteTom,
ReplyDeleteThanks for you thoughts on pain in relationship to our Heavenly Father. Recently, both my husband and I have been going through different kinds of pain. Mike has back pain and is seeing a chiropractor. I was recently in a car accident that was a VERY scary experience. I am in some pain but for the most part okay. Through this whole experience, I can honestly say that we can see the Hand of God in every part of our trials. Suffering and pain are a part of this life not that God wishes to see us suffer but that through the suffering and in the midst of the suffering we can learn more about trusting in Him. Suffering and pain is part of His plan. He became man for the sole purpose of dying for our sins and look how we benefit from that. When I look at it from that perspective it helps me accept pain and understand not that it makes it easy.
(I am a friend of your wife who referred me to your blog. Penny)
Thanks for your note Penny. My prayers are for you and Mike, and please tell him I started out with small injuries and seeing a chiropractor was one of my treatments. It is really surprising how different believers see pain as opposed to someone who either doesn't believe, or weren't sure about their faith. I agree that my pain has been educational when it comes to the Father and His plans. Thanks again for stopping by, please let me know if there's anything else you want to see. A brother in Christ, Tom
ReplyDeleteThanks so much, Tom. Mike has a bulging disc and is dealing with reinjury. He does too much and has to remember he is 50 not 20!! I have added your blog to my favorites and will look forward to reading your thoughts. Thanks for your insights and ministry. It is neat how God can use us !!! Take care and God bless, Penny
ReplyDelete