Life's Inanities and Ironies

 “The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in Him, and He helps me.” —Psalm 28:7 (NIV) Chronic illness is a relentless challenge, testing not just the body but the spirit. For nearly three years, I’ve been living with kidne y failure, and for the past two, my body has produced little to no urine. Prostate issues and low testosterone compound my struggles. Every 40 minutes, I’m struck by an urgent need to urinate, yet nothing comes. Sitting down briefly eases the sharp, stabbing pain at my bladder’s exit, like knives twisting within me. In recent days, a stubborn cough has taken hold, resisting every remedy I’ve tried . “Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.”  —James 1:2-3 (NIV) Explaining these symptoms to doctors has been an exercise in frustration—they often don’t fully understand the toll this takes. Days like today are especially heavy. My e...

Key Scripture: Mark 5:25-34 (The Woman with the Hemorrhage)  Supporting Scriptures: James 5:14-16, 2 Corinthians 12:9, Ephesians 6:10-11   Chronic illness is a heavy trial, a battle that tests our body, mind, and soul. But as believers who stand on the infallible Word of God, we know that Scripture is our sure guide, revealing God’s will for how we face such affliction. Today, we turn to the Bible to learn how to treat chronic illness with unwavering faith, fervent prayer, and obedience to God’s commands.   In Mark 5:25-34, we see a woman who suffered bleeding for twelve years. She had tried everything—doctors, remedies, all her resources—yet she only grew worse. But she heard of Jesus, the Son of God, and believed His power could heal her. With bold faith, she pressed through the crowd, touched His garment, and was instantly healed. Jesus declared, “Daughter, your faith has made you well; go in peace.” This teaches us our first truth: chronic illness must be ...