I struggle to be gracious and patient as I would choose a simple treatment of the symptoms but seek wisdom in pursing this course of medical detective work, our modern technological way, with a sense that x-rays and MRI's will only reveal that the mystery remains.
I am reminded of one of the greats who walked the earth who in his humanity suffered a "thorn in the flesh" and concluded that to keep him from exalting himself, there was given him that thorn in the flesh, a messenger to buffet him. Rather than wrestling with insurance to get his own way; he wrestled with God, asking three times to be relieved of his suffering and hearing these not so comforting words from above: "My grace is sufficient for you, for power is perfected in weakness."
His response seems phenomenal and so counter to our culture. His words are recorded: "Most gladly, therefore, I will rather boast about my weaknesses, that the power of Christ may dwell in me. Therefore, I am well content with weaknesses...distresses...difficulties, for Christ's sake; for when I am weak, then I am strong."
Is it possible that our present sufferings are for this same purpose? That we would learn contentment and find Christ's strength in our weakness. My conclusion: Yes, it is very possible.
