“This was to fulfill what was spoken through the prophet Isaiah: He took up our infirmities and carried our diseases.” Matthew 8:17
Did you know there are 49.2M people who have some type of disability in the United States? That is 19% of our population!
How does one handle having limitations? Recently having to face this situation, I must admit it was not what I would have chosen or been thankful in receiving.
Jesus has authority over all earthly diseases and illness, and does heal, so I expected that to happen for me. I have great doctors and have been blessed with great health for many years, so my expectation was that I would be back to normal in no time.
But that was not the path God had chosen for me to take at this time. The words, “there are many more people worse off than you, so just get a grip and move on,” were not what I wanted to hear. I was focused on what I didn’t have or couldn’t do, not on who I am in Christ and what He wanted to do through me.
No one really likes any kind of limitation or disability, but God has a plan and purpose for it. I saw that I had not really noticed or paid attention to those with limitations until I became one of them. God showed me I would have to learn to be a good member of the “Cane Crowd” so I could help others see past their limitations and become all that God meant for them to become and do, even with their limitations.
What are you facing today? Do you have limitations, or do you need to see how you can help those who do? Ask God to show you His plan and know that He is in control and has not left you.
One day when all sickness and disease are no more in our heavenly home we will see the total healing of our Lord. But until then, as Joni Eareckson Tada shares, “my wheelchair has shown me the way HOME by heart.” I, too, know that my heavenly HOME will be much better than here, but on the way there God has shown me His heart, so I can share it with you!
Sue Falcone is a gifted speaker and teacher. God has called Sue to use her unique presentation of encouragement and humor to help others overcome their fears. Skilled as a former “corporate America” manager, Sue is a graduate of Dale Carnegie and is a speaker for Stonecroft Ministries – Christian Women’s Clubs.