"Worrying does not take away tomorrow's troubles; it takes away today's peace." (Author unknown)

My oldest daughter has been undergoing severe back pain for quite some time now. The pain in her lower back is so excruciating, that it has almost crippled her. She can't walk upright because of the pain and has to use a cane to get from her chair to the table. After a few steps, she seizes up and has to recline — half sitting and half lying down — because she is unable to sit up straight.

As a mother, it is so hard to watch a daughter in such pain, trying to walk and unable to do so. Not being able to do something for her is heart-wrenching. If I could, I would take her pain onto myself, but I can't. My focus is not on God and His mercy, but my focus is on myself, and I begin to worry. The "what ifs" flash through my mind, and I feel myself sinking deeper and deeper into despair.

At times like these, though, God intervenes somehow. It may be through a phone call from a friend or a God-sent message through a devotional. God sent me a message through a devotional where the author said: "When we focus our thoughts on God instead of on our troubles, God's peace and presence will reward us as we forge ahead." The only thing that I could do is to pray to our heavenly Father for His help and comfort and that He would direct her to the appropriate doctor/specialist for a proper diagnosis.

1 Peter 5:7 – Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you. (NLT)

I was able to help my daughter, by doing her laundry, cleaning, and organizing various things in the house. My friend also helped by cooking the meals, so that my daughter could rest and heal.

Today, my daughter is back at work with the help of pain killers. She will be seeing a specialist soon and my prayer is that everything will turn out all right.

Some of us may be going through or will be facing pain, sickness, a loss, or some other hardship. Let us remember that in addition to doctors and specialists, we have prayer partners, our immediate and church families, and friends upon whom we can lean. But above all, we have a Friend Who promises to be with us in all things. His name is Jesus.

Prayer: Lord, God, thank You for always being with us, even though sometimes we think that You are far away. May we place our focus on You instead of ourselves and ask for Your help. Jesus, You said that we should cast our burdens onto You. Help us to remember. Amen.

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About the author:

Rosemary Hagedorn <rosyhagedorn@gmail.com>
Penetanguishene, Ontario, Canada
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