“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed,
for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you;
I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” – Isaiah 41:10, NIV
Thanksgiving Devotional Day 21
When Maddie was in her sophomore year at college, she caught the flu. She thought she’d feel better in a few days but two weeks came and went. Even though she no longer had the flu, she still didn’t feel right.
Maddie was frequently dizzy. She had muscle weakness that made it hard to do everyday tasks like shower and eat. She was tired all of the time and stopped socializing with her friends, choosing instead to sleep for hours.
At the end of the semester, she withdrew from college and went home. It took a year and a team of specialists before Maddie was diagnosed with an autoimmune disorder.
With treatment and time, Maddie’s symptoms improved. Soon, she’ll be starting her junior year of college to finish her degree.
Looking back, Maddie says she’s grateful for the illness. “It helped me to realize that God is always with me and that He’s holding onto me even when I don’t understand what’s happening.”
It can be hard when you or a loved one has an illness that lasts for a long time or isn’t diagnosed right away. Dealing with it can make you feel sad and alone, but know that God is right there with you, just like He was with Maddie.
God, facing illness—whether it’s my own or someone else’s—is scary. Please remind me during these times that You are near and You’re still holding me.
