Our Source of Strength

I used to be ashamed of my chronic illness. I pretended that every­thing was fine, even on days when I couldn’t move and it was obvious that something was terribly wrong. I was afraid to admit my need for help or to disclose that I had a disabling condition.

One day, my frustration with having to come up with yet another excuse overwhelmed me, and I started talking to others about my illness. Even though I felt liberated, I feared that I would be shunned or criticised. Instead, something wonderful happened; sharing my brokenness, neediness and weakness caused those around me to open up about the challenging areas in their own lives. When I shared my trials with them, they responded compassionately, helping me to see evidence of God’s mercy, power, love and grace in my life.

I realised that being honest about my hardships was a way of encouraging others in their own hardships. And as they told me how God had helped them through tough times, my faith and hope grew stronger. No matter what we are going through, letting others know how God is helping us and strengthening us will bless their lives in ways we can’t begin to imagine.