God will use our pain

He comforts us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any kind of affliction, through the comfort we ourselves receive from God." 2 Corinthians 1:4 CSB

When Bill Bucklew crossed the finish line of his first marathon in 1999, he declared, “I’m one-and-done; I’m never running another marathon again.” But after being diagnosed with Parkinson's disease in 2012, Bill took up the sport once more to raise money to find a cure (Bill estimates he has raised almost $200,000) and combat his symptoms,  completing his 20th marathon Sunday in Napa Valley. “There are two things that have been most important to me,” the 50-year-old said. “One is the importance of exercise, it has slowed the progression of my disease and helped manage the symptoms, and I want to share that message. Second, I meet so many people through my charitable efforts, and they’re some of my closest friends today. That community is really important and helps me stay engaged and stay positive. Nobody understands your situation like someone who’s in the same situation.”

And you know what? Bill is right. Nobody understands our situation like someone who’s been in our situation. Which means our pain is never wasted when we allow God to use it. You see, the Bible tells us that God "comforts us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any kind of affliction." And we do this by passing on “the comfort we ourselves receive from God." In other words, it’s “through” the care and compassion we receive from the Father that we develop empathy for those around us experiencing the same pain we have experienced that makes us compelled and able to console someone in their suffering. 

So if you're going through a difficult time right now--maybe due to a recent diagnosis, a pending divorce, an unexpected death, or any number of other things--take heart my friend. God will not only comfort you through this time but will redeem your pain by allowing you to be a comfort to someone else one day. 

Heavenly Father, You are the Creator of the universe and yet You personally comfort each and every one of us when we are in need. That love is unfathomable Lord but we thank You. In light of that, help us to embrace our pain as opportunities to experience Your great love and Presence as you comfort us like the good Father you are. Help us to look for ways to extend this same comfort to others that they might come to know You because of our actions. It's in your precious Name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Bring the rain