Finding Hope in Psalms for Living With Chronic Pain and IllnessSample

## Ready for Battle > You have armed me with strength for the battle. —Psalm 18:39 Dealing with chronic pain is tough. It is quite literally a pain, in every sense of the word. Some days, doing a basic task, such as showering or getting dressed, can be a struggle and require adaptations. One activity that may seem simple to others may end up being the only thing you do in a day. And if so, that’s okay. No matter what you do or don’t do, you are still a child of God. God knows that life will be difficult at times. That’s true for everyone, not just those living with chronic pain and illness. You won’t be able to handle everything on your own. The wonderful news is that you do not have to go through life’s challenges (including muscle spasms, migraines, etc.) alone. He is there to help you, but you have to let Him do so. Call out to Him, and He will give you the strength you need for battle—even if that battle is your basic daily routine or one within your own body. Psalm 18 was written by David. It’s about deliverance and protection. When clothed with God’s power, David was able to defeat his enemies. He knew his strength and courage came from the Lord. Though our enemy—pain—is different, we, too, can do be like David. As mentioned in verse 19, “He rescued me because He delights in me.” Here’s some wonderful news: God delights in us, too! God is good. All the time. He is on your side, and He has a purpose for every pain you are dealing with today. Take each stab, throb, or spasm to the Lord. Let Him assist you. When you ask God for help, He will give you what you need to face each day—one moment at a time, one day at a time. You may never develop superhero strength, but God will always provide all you need. Lord, thank You for equipping me for each battle I face, whether it’s within my body or external, each and every day. Amen.