When my hip starts hissing and that pesky place on my back starts biting bad, I follow a prescription someone gave me years ago. (My friend suffers from degenerative disc disease and lives pretty much on the “nine” level of the pain scale). And I pass on his wisdom to you:
Do the next thing. When you’re in pain, it is so easy to get stuck in the present moment of searing agony. So rally your senses, take what medication is advised, and get up and do the next thing—could be the laundry, a paper due, bills to be paid, or a worship service to attend. Whatever it is, do it.
Help someone else. There are scores of people around you whose situations are as difficult, if not worse than yours. Find that person whom you can serve by alleviating their suffering however you’re able. Be inspired by the example of Jesus: while dying on the cross, he was reaching out to the fellow next to him!
Soak yourself in Scripture. Psalm 119:92 says, “If your law had not been my delight, I would have perished in my affliction.” Psalm 119:107 echoes, “I have suffered much; preserve my life, O Lord, according to your word.” These verses underscore the importance of grasping the Word of God when it comes to “keeping your head” above the waters of affliction!
Find a good distraction. Pain specialists say that this is one of the most effective ways to manage pain. Focus on an interesting hobby, read a fascinating book, finish an important project, or fix a leaky faucet.
Check your meds. Philippians 4:6 tells us to be anxious for nothing. If your medication is making you anxious, talk to your doctor—there may be something better for you. For me? Stretching daily, drinking lots of water, and breathing exercises help.
Reduce stress and anxiety. Isaiah 32:17 says, “The fruit of righteousness will be peace; the effect of righteousness will be quietness and confidence forever.” Pursue right living: keep in step with the Spirit, practice being grateful, put a melody in your heart, pause to pray, keep regular with your Bible reading, and give his love to others.
Rehearse what you know to be true. Physical pain can cloud our convictions about God’s benefits, which is why I must continually stir my soul to remember them. God has pardoned all my sin, rescued, restored, crowned me with his love, and healed all my diseases. Does this mean the pain goes away? Not immediately; but I have the sure promise that just as Jesus rose from the grave with a new body, so I will one day rise with no more pain or heartache.
