Not Why But How

I LEARNED to stop asking God why a long time ago. But I frequently ask Him how. How can I go forward? How can I endure this? How can I stay positive and productive as I battle chronic pain?

The fact is, I receive letters from people who struggle with pain far, far more than I do. And frankly, I don’t know how they do it. A woman named Barbara has been bedridden for over ten years, and there are only two positions she can get into, neither of which is comfortable. Barbara’s pain is off the charts, and her sleep comes only in little bits. When she reached out to me, I felt so helpless. What could I say to her? How could I help her?

The key is right there in the word how. Don’t ask God why, but rather ask Him how. How do we keep on? How do we live? How can we care about others when we carry such a heavy load ourselves? How can we be kind and civil when we are racked with pain so much of the time?

My friend Dr. Michael Easley, who suffers constant pain from degenerative disk disease, will often say, “Just do the next thing.” It’s what I tell myself when pain intrudes, elbowing and clawing its way into my day. I will say, “Joni, just do the next thing.” It’s overwhelming at times, and I tire of the journey, but God remains faithful and kind to us in the midst of our suffering.

We live in a terribly fallen world. Remembering this, I comfort myself knowing that while I am a sinner deserving only hell and punishment, He has by His grace and kindness saved me eternally, and this life is only temporary. My pain—and Barbara’s, and yours—is just a tiny little taste of the hell from which Christ has rescued us.

So, friend, if you are dealing with pain today, or depression or grief or paralyzing anxiety, I encourage you to “just do the next thing.” It may mean simply getting out of bed or up off the couch. Or getting out of the house. Or doing the laundry or washing those dishes that have been sitting in the sink. And as you do it, ask Him to give you joy in some small but noticeable way.

Press on as best you can, and lean into His embrace. And take heart. One of these days you will hear those wonderful words from your Savior, “Well done, good and faithful servant,” all because you got up and did the next thing.

GOING DEEPER . . .

Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy. For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. . . . If you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and he will give it to you. He will not rebuke you for asking.

James 1:2-3,5, NLT

What is the “next thing” in your life today? Ask the Lord for the grace and courage to step into it, whatever it is.