A Verse for Pain
Hey, I’ve got a great remedy for pain!
Hi, I’m Joni Eareckson Tada and yes, I do know something about chronic pain and as you would guess, I know at least something about remedies for pain. Years of quadriplegia and sitting in one position in a wheelchair can make for a pretty sore back and a hip. And when my hip starts hissing and that pesky place on my back starts biting, it’s not fun. I’m sure you’ve heard me say on this program that pain is something I deal with almost daily. And many of you have been kind enough to send me articles and ideas to alleviate pain, and Ken and I have made it a matter of daily prayer. So, what have I found to be the best remedy? Aspirin, ibuprofen, Tylenol…no? Okay, how about those medicated creams and ointments? Or what about the really hardcore stuff like Oxycodone or Fentanyl? Does that do the trick?
Well, if you’re like me, and if you must deal daily with pain, you know all about these treatments and more. And you also know that all of them have limitations – big limitations. I mean, even a strong prescription drug, often the side effects do more damage than good. Let me give you a personal example. You know how many prescription drugs list anxiety as a side effect? Well, they do, and I should know. I have been there, done that, and I was amazed how anxious I became when I took pain medication. I mean, for awhile there, I didn’t even want to go to sleep without a light on. I had to have the bedroom door open! If I lay down in bed with a cover on, I had to have my head propped up. Those crazy anxious feelings of claustrophobia made me panicky. And, frankly, the side effect of anxiety only made my pain worse. You get tense, you get nervous, you get tight, and all of it only adds to the problem of pain.
So, I believe the best remedy for pain is anything that reduces stress and anxiety. And that’s not just what medical journals or doctors advice; it’s what the Bible says. Because when you’re in pain and when you’re wanting to do everything to decrease anxious feelings or stress, God’s Word gives us good sound advice. Because when we are told to seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, wonderful things happen. Like what? And what does it have to do with alleviating physical pain? Well, listen to the prophet Isaiah. Listen to what he said when we seek God and His righteousness. He said, “And the work of righteousness will be peace, and the service of righteousness, quietness and confidence forever.” That’s from Isaiah 32:17 and don’t you love it?
Oh my, what a wonderful verse to help me face pain! And believe me, it helps. You know as well as I do that when our bodies are at rest and our souls are unstressed, well, nothing helps relieve pain better. God will keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on Him. Friend, if you deal with pain, pursue the righteousness of God; that is, pursue right living, keep in step with the Spirit, practice being grateful, put a melody in your heart, pause to pray, keep regular with your Bible reading, give His love to others, take the advice of Jesus and remember that one day’s troubles are enough for one day. Friend, be anxious for nothing and if your medication is making you anxious, talk to your doctor. There may be something better for you. In short, seek out God and the way He would have you do things, and the work of righteousness will be peace, and the service of it, quietness – quietness of mind, heart, soul, and body. Yep, we knew all along that the Bible was a whole lot better than ibuprofen!
Previously aired as Program #7764 on: 2/2/12
© Joni and Friends
