May is Lyme Disease Awareness Month. I have been thinking a lot over the last year about my illness and what it means for me. I have had the privilege of being able to see God use it for good, and I'm so blessed by that. I have seen my story impact others and even lead others to answers for their own health. I am so thankful that God can take something horrible and make good come out of it. That is so God, isn't it?! And this disease, let me tell you, is just that; it is horrible. I would not wish this on anyone.
This weekend we had an amazing guest speaker come to our church; a young Pastor who has the gift of speaking such truth in a way that really makes you listen. I was both blessed by his testimony as well as challenged by the words God had given him to speak. He talked about how Jesus came not only to save us, but also to give us abundant life. John 10:10 says "The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly." (ESV)
I have often felt like this disease has stolen my life from me; that it has not only stolen my health, but also the very person I am. But, what this man spoke made me see that the enemy can only steal what I allow him to steal. He can only destroy me if I let him. Jesus came to give me LIFE to the fullest. So, it is all in how I view my life. It's all in how I see things and who I'm letting control my life. I must choose to allow God to be in control and not the enemy of my soul, who is a liar and a thief.
I can choose to feel sorry for myself and allow the devil to steal my life, my family, my health. Or, I can choose to allow God to use me and my story, sickness and all, to impact others, bring awareness, and change me from the inside out.
God has been so good to me. He has transformed me from the person I once was and I am so thankful for that. He has given me new life. And even though it is not what I expected, I trust He has a plan. God never promised us an easy life. In fact, the Bible says in John chapter 16, verse 33 "In this world you will have trouble. But, take heart! I have overcome the world." (NIV) Yes, in this world there is sickness and pain. But, He conquered the grave. He defeated death. This life is hard, but I put my hope in Him. He gives me the strength to make it through the hard times. I can choose to be miserable and give up on life, or I can choose to see where God is moving and focus on the many things He has done for me.
I will be sharing my testimony in the near future right here on my blog. I believe this is crucial to my spiritual healing; sharing how far God has brought me is part of my healing journey.
I want to challenge you today-how do you view the challenges and obstacles in your life? Are you allowing the enemy to steal from you, or have you surrendered your life to the One who promises you abundant life?
