Which is Worse?

I am currently in a bible study and we are slogging our way through the book of Revelation.  I find myself going between confusion and sadness.  I am confused because so much of the description has me wondering whether to take John’s words literally (which is frightening) or figuratively which makes me feel like I am hallucinating.  I am sad because either way, the people suffered so much and yet most walked away unwilling to change their ways, to give up their idols and false gods and walk with God.

It got me to thinking in relation to surviving medical mayhem.

Which pain is worse: physical, emotional or spiritual pain?

Physical pain is pain that separates our bodies from the health and wellness God intended.  Emotional pain is a reaction towards physical or spiritual pain.  Spiritual pain is the separation from God and is Satan in action.

The Book of Revelation had me pondering this question.  Which is worse: physical, emotional or spiritual pain?

I have experienced physical pain.  Between hip replacements, breast cancer, radiation therapy, cardiac disease and bypass surgery and a plethora of other disease states; there have been times I cried to God that I didn’t think I could go on.  But while medications helped diffuse that pain, I have found just how much the human body can withstand and I am amazed.  Physical pain can often cause emotional pain.

I have felt emotional pain.  Pain from loss, abuse, false friendships, deceit and low self-esteem have propelled me into unhealthy behaviors, depression and then to seek counseling for help.  Getting help and support are key to being emotional healthy.  Emotional pain can often lead to physical conditions and pain.

To me, spiritual pain or lack of faith and hope is the most frightening.  Spiritual pain has left me feeling alone in an overcrowded room, home, town, state, country and world.  Spiritual pain has caused me both physical and emotional pain and has led me to feelings of isolation, despair, worthlessness and hopelessness.  Spiritual pain has left me without purpose and wanting to end my life.

Spiritual pain can lead to emotional pain which can lead to physical pain.  But with spiritual gain (spiritually aligning with Christ Jesus) I found I am best able to withstand the physical and emotional pain.  It is a veritable balm for my body and soul. And the peace that surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.”  Philippians 4:6

Pain is a great motivator and God knows it.  I know pain has been what has propelled me into trying to live a healthier lifestyle – although, that is a constant work in process.  I cannot get through physical or emotional pain without spiritual gain to God.  It is our spirituality that defines us and through our physical and emotional pain we are refined.

I may never fully understand all that John’s Book of Revelation is trying to tell us.  I know there is lots of terrible pain coming.  I know the human condition is weak and Satin is strong and is using our world, our political and religious affiliations as his playground.

But one message is clear. God wins!  God never fails us.  God never leaves us, no matter how hard we push Him away.  He provides us with the gift of the Holy Spirit so that we might have the true medicine to overcome the pain of this world.  God loves us so much that He keeps giving us opportunities to grow our faith, our spirits in spite of the pain. Aligning our spirits with Christ and walking in His ways in faith is the assurance that God wins.  And we will live in the House of Lord forever.

What do you think?  Which is worse: Physical, Emotional or Spiritual pain?  Please share in the conversation.

Thank you for reading my post.  If you have found it encouraging please consider liking, commenting or sharing it.  Feel free to even re-blog – may these words take flight!

I have additional insights I’d love to share with you found in the pages of my debut book: Surviving Medical Mayhem – Laughing When It Hurts.  To order a copy or learn more go to my website at www.lorettaschoen.com

Blessings for Health & Wellness.  Loretta

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