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Previous Challenge Entry (Level 2 – Intermediate)
Topic: TRAVELER (01/28/16)
It seems I have been a traveler on a similar road with the Apostle Paul. Ironic as that may sound it’s quite real to me. It all started several years ago when I felt like I had been hit by a train. Like Humpty Dumpty my body was broken and couldn’t be put back together again. My hands trembled as if anxiety had wrapped its tentacles around me. All I wanted was to crawl under the covers in my darkened bedroom. And yet, under the covers even sleep eluded me. During the day my body would spasm and twitch uncontrollably. The pain was intense and throbbing. I cried, begging God to heal me.

A week later I was in Dr. Dave’s office describing a few more of my symptoms such as problems concentrating and remembering the simplest of tasks. Tingling that radiates through my body like a jolt of electricity and how my back feels like an elephant hitched a ride. Dr. Dave did his best to reassure me I was going to survive. All I could see was a dark gloomy tunnel. He told me he believes I have a disease called Fibromyalgia.

My life was about to change direction. I was facing the biggest Goliath I had ever encountered. He was an evil, invisible, fierce and unrelenting opponent that didn’t play fair. His goal was to rob and steal everything I was from the inside out. Most of my life I had been self-sufficient. I felt I didn’t want or need help from anyone. I put my needs on the back burner and took care of everyone else. Pride was rampant but I didn’t see it was destroying me.

It was then I remembered how the Apostle Paul begged God three times to take away his affliction. In 2 Corinthians 12:8-9 he wrote “Concerning this thing I pleaded with the Lord three times that it might depart from me. And He said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore, more gladly I will rather boast in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.

Through this whole ordeal I have learned how to ask for help. I praise God for taking the blinders off my eyes so I can truly see Him. I discovered my identity isn’t based on my performance but on who I am through Christ. Oh, I cried, complained and threw tantrums through the process but God did not give up on me. At first I saw my weakness as a curse. And then I realized it was much deeper than that.

Having fibromyalgia has been a blessing in disguise. Oh, I wouldn’t wish it on anyone however I wouldn’t change anything God has taught me through it. Like my fellow traveler Paul, I now have an even deeper relationship with God through my affliction that is priceless.

It’s true I have a disease that weakens my body and mind but not my spirit. This is a real battle that takes an incredible amount of strength to fight but God is ultimately in control. His grace truly is sufficient for me. And I still have a voice and fingers that can type on the keyboard and I won’t stop until the day I meet my Maker.
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Member Comments
Member
Date
Ashley Rowland
02/04/16
I think a lot of people can probably relate to this. Not only with Fibromyalgia, but with other "thorns." Like you and Paul, I have prayed many times for God to take my "thorn" - Fabry disease. He hasn't seen fit to answer that one. What I have heard, is maybe there's a reason. Maybe I'm reaching others I wouldn't otherwise. Like you.

Thank you for this article.

God bless!
C D Swanson 
02/05/16
My fellow fibromyalgia friend, oh how I relate to this. I was recently in the ER with pains so bad I thought I was having a heart attack. So my heart goes out to you.

The scriptures you've given are not only pertinent, but the essence of "life" as it were...excellent job, thanks for sharing your message and story.

God bless~
Bonnie Bowden 
02/07/16
My niece also has the crippling disease of Fibromyalgia. I'm glad you, like Paul, have grown in your walk in Christ during this difficult time.
Lea Austin
02/09/16
While I can't identify with those battling this particular disease, I can certainly identify with the basic principle of learning through suffering which your story exemplifies well.
Bonnie Bowden 
02/11/16
Congratulations, Laine, on your highly commended story in the Intermediate Category.

I hope God continues to sustain you as you deal with the Fibromyalgia.
Wanda Draus
02/11/16
Congratulations on your Highly Commended!!

I have a close friend with Fibro and my sister suffers with RA. Your piece is so inspiring for all those who suffer from intense pain. The scriptures are like balm for our soul when we suffer.

God Bless!!