For most of my life, I have been blessed with good health. Then I entered a different season.
The COVID-19 pandemic changed that. After recovering from the acute form, I found that I had developed significant tremors of the head and right arm. The neurologist diagnosed a chronic condition called dystonia.
To say that my life changed drastically would be an understatement. None of the medicines prescribed had any beneficial effect. A fairly radical intervention left me with additional debilitating side effects, and I had to deal with constant pain, particularly in my neck and shoulders. It seemed as if I were sliding downward, with no hope of stopping or turning around.
Every day, I prayed for help to deal with my physical weakness and pain, just for that day. Amazingly, God answered my prayers and gave me the strength to deal with the pain, tremors, and low energy. Some days were more difficult than others. I asked for an understanding of God’s purpose for me in this season.
The answer I received was to have patience. God does not allow affliction without a definite, good plan. And He loves us. Little by little, I learned to accept the pain. When it got overwhelming, I took a painkiller or an anti-inflammatory tablet.
I started walking every morning to build up strength, gradually increasing the distance. At present, I can manage just over a mile in hilly terrain. I am finding that my neck and shoulder muscles are getting stronger, and the pain is becoming less intense.
In this time of testing, I have come to trust God. I have found that He does supply my needs, and that He walks with me through the difficult times (Psalm 94:18-19). God has encouraged me to continue doing the things that bring me joy.
You may find yourself in a season where everything seems to go wrong. Keep reaching out to the everlasting Father. In His unfailing love, He will be with you and support you.
Wolfgang Bernhardt, an engineer by profession, is passionate about honoring God in his daily life. He writes devotions and articles for magazines and is a co-author of Living by the Book, which explores how the wisdom from God’s Word can be applied in everyday life.