“Could it be … that, like a coin, both sides of the same argument are true? That miraculous healing is possible and that chronic illness is just as miraculous from a heavenly perspective?” Pamela Piquette
WHAT IS THE TRUTH ABOUT HEALING?
Humanity is hardwired to pursue truth. Yet, truth is complex, with elements as seemingly opposite as right from wrong. Those who are chronically ill pursue healing for a time, but at some point (perhaps from sheer exhaustion), our pursuit must change to living well with pain and illness.
Is one pursuit right and the other wrong?
TWO DIFFERENT “TRUTHS” ABOUT HEALING
Not long ago, I was blessed to discuss the idea of healing with a remarkable pastor who is convinced that healing is not only possible but is an essential pursuit. His unwavering belief that our culture offers few options besides medication and surgery was eye-opening. He pointed toward other countries that creatively pursue healthcare by improving how the body works and fueling healthy living instead of simply trying to fix what is wrong.
I believe that Scripture is clear: God is not against physical healing but is more interested in our spiritual wellness. My desire to know God, pray, read Scripture, and live out my faith was magnified during a short but serious illness and even more now that I live with chronic migraine and chronic pain.
When my dad was diagnosed with a brain tumor, I struggled to reconcile, praying for his physical healing but not my own chronic illness. I thought I had made peace with not being healed. But that realization left me pondering.
WHAT IS THE TRUTH ABOUT HEALING?
I think the God of the universe makes His will clear. Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances for this is God’s will for us in Christ Jesus. (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18)
The intimate relationship we can have with God through the power of His Holy Spirit gives us inspiration, passions, and experiences that allow us to live out God’s will for us.
My passionate conversation with my pastor friend ended in prayer and unity. How is this possible when neither of us changed our beliefs? Perhaps because, like a two-sided coin, both sides of the same argument are true – miraculous healing is possible and spiritual healing without physical healing is miraculous too.
PRAYER
Gracious Heavenly Father, chronic illness is hard. You know we would not have chosen to live with illness and pain. Yet, as we learn to surrender our will to Yours, we discover that we are more aware of the small gifts – sunshine, birdsong, the solitude that draws us to You, and a growing compassion for others. Please teach us to be grateful for all of Your gifts. In Jesus’ name, amen.
FOR REFLECTION
- Hold a coin in your hand. Consider one side to be physical healing and the other side spiritual growth. Journal your thoughts and questions.
- Pray about the life changes you experience because of chronic illness. Acknowledge the hard and ask God to help you notice the good.
Pamela Piquette
Executive Director and Co-Founder of Chronic Joy®
Pamela, a leader and a visionary following God's call to inspire those affected by chronic illness, mental illness, and chronic pain, believes that every precious life impacted by illness is both vital and purposed.
Pamela is a wife of more than 35 years, the mom of three married children, and a grandma of six. She is diagnosed with chronic migraines and other chronic conditions. She enjoys baking sourdough bread and chocolate chip cookies, drinking hot tea, being outdoors, and reading (almost always more than one book at a time).
Self-Care for your Soul
Spend a little time getting to know God better— who He is, what He’s like, how He feels about us, and how He acts toward His creation. Sabbath rest helps us discover the peace only found trusting in God's presence.
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