HOPE For Arthritis Sufferers

Spiritual Aid

Katia says:  "When a person suffers from an illness like this, she is convinced that no one knows what she is going through.  This makes it important to turn to Jehovah God, knowing that he really understands our physical and emotional condition.  (Psalm 31:7) Having a good relationship with him has given me the peace of mind to live almost serenely  with my illness."  The Bible appropriate calls Jehovah "The God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our tribulation." -2 Corinthians 1:3, 4.

Prayer can thus be a powerful source of comfort to someone suffering chronic pain. Kazumi relates:  "During the long nights when I cannot sleep because of  the pain and for wisdom to face all my difficulties.  Jehovah has definitely answered me." Francesca  has likewise experienced God's loving support.  She says:  "I've see the fulfillment of the words of Philippians 4:13:  'For all things I have the strength by virtue of him who imparts power to me.' "

Oftentimes, Jehovah God provided support through the Christian congregation. Gail, for example, tells of the help she received from her spiritual brothers and sisters in the local congregation of Jehovah's Witnesses.   "Their love helped me not to become depressed," says Gail. In a similar vein, when Keiko was asked,  "Is there anything you can think of that has been good in your life?," She replied:  "Yes, all the love and sympathy I get from everyone in the congregation!" 

In congregations of Jehovah's Witnesses, overseers take the lead in rendering such support. Setsuko says: "I can't describe how great the effect is on a person fighting illness when the elders listen and give comfort."  However, as an arthritis sufferer named Daniel remind us," our spiritual brothers and sisters can only help if we let them."  It is therefore important that sufferers stay in contact with fellow Christians, doing their very best to attend congregation meetings.  (Hebrews 10:24,25)  There they can receive the spiritual encouragement needed to endure. 

Next time: HOPE For Arthritis Sufferers/Suffering Will End

From the Awake! magazine