I Can Still Have Joy

JOY IN CHRONIC ILLNESS

A chronic illness can wreak havoc in our lives. There are no easy answers when it comes to processing what has happened and adjusting to this changed life. It takes time, and there may be many ups and downs along the way. That’s okay. Ultimately, though, we can come to the point of choosing joy even in the midst of the challenges a chronic illness brings.

I CAN STILL HAVE JOY

I question
this existence,
merely getting through,
not knowing what to do,
weighed down by simple tasks,
so why keep on, I ask.

Even so,
I have a choice,
let it take me down,
in despair to drown,
or rise above it all,
refuse to fall.

In these circumstances,
I see glances,
of a better way
to look at things,
and then I see the lift it brings.

It’s only through
Divine help
I can even begin
to find joy
in the place I’m in.

When I
clear away
the doubts, the fears,
wipe the tears,
watch and heed
the Spirit’s lead,
I then find joy indeed.

Although an illness came,
and stole,
and took control,
I can still
have joy in my soul.

PERSONAL REFLECTIONS

1. Consider writing a prayer asking the Lord to help you find joy in spite of your situation.
2. Is there one area in your life in which you can still find joy?
3. Collect your favorite quotes and verses about joy and keep them handy so you can reach for them when you need their reminders the most.

AN INVITATION

For more on the topic of joy in the midst of chronic illness, see the Suffering and Joy printable.