Learning Through Trials

I have not blogged in a while because of my arms. A week ago my left arm started hurting and a couple of days later, so did my right arm. I had tendinitis 9 years ago when I was a cashier and I think that's what I'm dealing with again. I see my doctor in a week, so I will talk to her about it. I'm seeing her for a follow-up to find out my x-ray results. I've been having pain on + off by my tailbone, exactly where I had a cyst removed 7 years ago. The doctor couldn't see anything from the outside, so I opted to get an x-ray done. Some days I've been incredibly discouraged by the almost constant pain and having to always think, "How can I do this activity so that I don't further hurt my arms?" On those days that I get discouraged I go to my journal where I have Scripture promises written down about healing, who I am in Christ and fear. When I feed on the Word the fear and discouragement starves. I keep on thanking Jesus so that I focus on all the good instead of all the bad. It's definitely a struggle, though. I'm learning that I can try to eat as healthy as possible, avoiding gluten, most dairy, sugar, even substituting coconut oil for butter, take vitamins, minerals, fish oil, etc. and still not be immune from health problems. I'm not saying that those are bad things to do. I want to honor God with my body as it is where the Holy Spirit lives and I want to take care of it, but I am not ultimately in control, as much as I try to be. I do the best that I can and I need to just trust God to take care of me. The almost constant health issues since last year are so tiring, not just physically but also mentally and emotionally. At the same time, my compassion for those with chronic illness has grown immensely and I pray for those people I know often. I don't want to complain about it but I also want to be honest with where I'm at right now. The tears have come frequently lately and, "Lord, I need you," has come from my lips often. I was reminded of that verse, "I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” John 16:33 He has overcome and I can rejoice in Him! No matter how much pain I am, I can still choose to praise and look for things to be thankful for. It doesn't mean that I have to keep a smile pasted on my face but even when the tears come I can still worship. I pray that God will be glorified in my body and I pray for healing daily not only for myself but friends and family as well. If you want to join me in praying, you are more than welcome to! :)