God’s Got It – No Worry Needed

WE DON’T “HAVE IT” BECAUSE GOD’S GOT IT

Life with chronic illness is hard. Perhaps you are frustrated that you can’t do what your friends can. Maybe you feel overwhelmed by all you have to worry about—or you have days when it all feels like too much.

Every day, our culture bombards us with messages of self-empowerment. We are told to take charge of our lives, push ourselves to the max, and adopt a “can-do” attitude. With chronic illness, this pressure can leave us feeling overwhelmed and inadequate because, despite our best efforts, we continue to suffer.

When you’re feeling down, someone might say, “You’ve got this!” Has anyone ever told you that? How did it make you feel?

Maybe it boosted your confidence, but when the next wave of pain hit, that confidence seemed to vanish. Encouragement from our loved ones in our fight against chronic illness is so needed. However, not all words of encouragement can help us if they are not rooted in God’s truth. While it might be nice to hear that we “have this,” it also puts a giant weight on our shoulders, one we aren’t meant to carry.

GOD’S GOT IT

In the Bible, there’s a story about a very strong man. His name was Samson, and his motto should have been “I’ve got this!” Physically, no one could compete with him, not even lions! God had given him superhuman strength to set him apart as an example, but Samson was proud and foolish, which led him to lose his strength and end up in prison. Right before his death, he humbled himself and asked God for the strength to destroy his enemies and honor God. God granted this request and gave Samson strength one last time. It took Samson his whole life to realize that his abilities were not something to boast about or take for granted. In the end, he realized that it was God who “had it” and that God had “had it” all along.

The Bible tells us we can do all things through Him who gives us strength. We have to remind ourselves that, despite what the world says, God is our source of strength. Every day, your illness may bring many challenges, but when those hurts become too much, you can rest in God’s loving arms and remind yourself, “He’s got this!”

PRAYER

Heavenly Father, thank You for being our strength on both the good days and the bad. You give us the courage to face our illness and to remain hopeful. Thank You for reminding us that we don’t have to hold everything together because You “have it” for us. Help us remember that we were never meant to carry our burdens alone. Thank You for Your never-ending love. In Jesus’ name, amen.

QUESTIONS FOR REFLECTION

• Can you think of a time when you felt super strong, like Samson? How did it make you feel?
• How did it feel when that strength disappeared? Were you angry, frustrated, or sad?
• How can you remind yourself of Philippians 4:13? Do you journal or paint? Perhaps you enjoy crafts, knitting, sports, or the outdoors. As you engage in your favorite activity, reflect on how God gave you the ability to do that specific task.