Real Pain = Real Distress

I’ll never forget a lady who told me several years ago that my pain was “only in my head.” Honestly, it was all I could do not to knock her in the head. When pain is real and intense, you’re simply not in an easy place. And the longer it lingers, the more it affects you physically, emotionally, mentally, and relationally.

This morning I woke up with that same throbbing pain in my left side. Like emergency flashers, it’s letting me know it’s still very present. Yes, the same pain I thought my recent Rhizotomy had already brought under control. For the last five days it’s been faintly tapping me on the shoulder. But today it’s leaving no doubt that it’s still a threat to my relief.

It’s still too early to panic, but I’d be lying if I said my concerns aren’t rising. All I can do right now is try to throw water on the fire. All I can do is pray and place it all in God’s hands.

Lord, whatever You want me to see in this pain, please show me. Have Your way both in me and through me. Encourage someone else who is blinded by their own pain. I know You are with me and with them. No matter how high the pain rises, You are always greater.

Give us Your grace as we seek Your face. Lift our spirit through the power of Your Holy Spirit. Help us not to lose heart regardless of what we’re feeling. You’ve proven Yourself faithful time and time again. I know You’ll do it once more.

“For the glory of your name, O LORD, preserve my life. Because of your faithfulness, bring me out of this distress.” Psalm 143:11