Finding Christ in the Struggle: Encouragement for Those With Chronic IllnessSample

The longer I live with chronic illness, the more I recognize time alone with Jesus is detrimental. The stronger my spiritual life, the more equipped I feel to take on the challenges my disability poses.

Doctor appointments, physical, occupational, and aqua therapy, surgical procedures, and chemotherapy can quickly steal days away. Making it more difficult to slow down and spend time with Him.

It doesn’t help that I’m a list-maker finding deep satisfaction in checking off items. I’m generally an overly prepared patient who has appointments booked months in advance and has my prescriptions automatically refilled. 

I’m a “doer.” Getting things done helps me feel accomplished, but as a believer, I recognize the importance of deepening my relationship with Christ. Particularly, the more my physical fitness fades and the chronic illness progresses. 

As I find solace in Scripture, I’m reminded of the story of Mary and Martha. The apostle Luke gave an account of when Martha opened her home to Jesus. During His visit, her sister Mary sat at the Lord’s feet while Martha did the brunt of the work preparing for Christ’s visit. 

As Martha asked Him to instruct Mary to help her, Jesus responded with, “'Martha, Martha,’ the Lord answered, ‘you are worried and upset about many things, but few things are needed—or indeed only one. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.’” (Luke 10:41-42)

Chronic illness has robbed me of so much, and as it worsens, I recognize the very real threat of more loss. However, as I draw near to Christ and sit in His presence, I find peace and contentment that will never be taken from me. It’s something I deeply cherish, guard, and prioritize. 

My diagnosis is difficult enough to manage, and at times, I need to rearrange my schedule to take a much-needed reprieve and sit at the Lord’s feet. Unlike my other appointments, time with Him never disappoints.