Psalm 23:3a says, “He restoreth my soul.” We know that God sees us in our wholeness. But, often, we don’t see ourselves as whole. Many of us suffer from chronic conditions that alter our lifestyle. Our ailments often overflow to the point where it affects anyone who is close to us – family, friends and associates – just to name a few. Using myself as an example, I was raised to be independent. My parents wanted me to be strong and self-sufficient and I took heed.
Later in life, I was diagnosed with several chronic diseases. Chronic diseases cannot and should not be ignored. Dealing with chronic diseases can lead to depression, denial and it demands lifestyle changes. But then I remember Philippians 4:13 that tells me that I can do all things through Christ Jesus. I’m reminded of Psalm 23 that reminds me that Jesus will restore my soul as well as my body. I’m further reminded in II Corinthians 12:9 that God’s grace is sufficient, and let’s not forget that when we are weak, He is strong (II Corinthians 12:10).
It begins with putting my Faith in our Lord and Savior. When I think on the fact that I can do all things through Christ Jesus, I also keep in mind that, yes, I can do all things; however, my boundaries have changed. It may take me longer to get it done, but I’m still within the “all things.” Instead of allowing depression to overtake me because of what I cannot do, I dwell on God’s grace that is more than enough to get me through any challenge. When I feel weak, I lean on the Word of God that tells me that He will restore my soul. I may be weak, but He is strong. I know I can rest in His arms.
We may not always understand why our bodies become weak and/or frail. We may not understand why our lives are disrupted with ailments. What we do know is that Jesus is there with us every step of the way. We know that He will never leave us or forsake us (Deuteronomy 31:6). Dwelling on the “why” can lead to depression. Leaning on my Faith is my pathway to the joy of the Lord – which is my strength. My soul and my body are restored because God said so and He cannot lie (Titus 1:2).
By Lorraine Castle
Rev. Cynthia Jackson is the administrator of the Rhema4U Blog and Innovations Ministries Director. Rev. Jackson is a native of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. She was licensed and ordained under the tutelage of Bishop David G. Evans. She is an associate minister at Bethany Baptist Church located in Lindenwold, New Jersey. Rev. Jackson founded Innovations Ministries in 2001. Innovations Ministries provides dynamic and innovative programs and services for individuals and families dealing with various health-related issues. She is a gifted teacher, preacher, conference speaker and writer. God has anointed Rev. Jackson to be a spiritual midwife with a passion to empower others to birth God's vision for their lives. Rev. Jackson holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Organizational Management from Eastern University, a Master of Science Degree in Health Administration from Saint Joseph's University and a Master of Science Degree in Christian Counseling from Cairn University.
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