Sick Day Blessings | Soulful Solace

So, I was sick a few weeks ago with a head and chest cold. It’s just me and my dog, so I didn’t feel bad about feeling a bit whiny. I couldn’t help but think, as I often do when I’m not feeling well, that I wanted the comfort of my mom and dad. They passed away many years ago, and I can’t help but wonder why, at 53 years old, I still crave the comfort of my parents’ arms. Then I get to thinking that I’d hold and comfort my adult girls if they’d ask too. When I’m not feeling well is when I find myself reminiscing about how comforting and loving my parents were during my childhood.

My go-to visual is me with my head on Jesus’ shoulder and His arm around me, saying, “There, there, everything will be okay.” I love that as I age, I can go to Jesus first with… well, everything. I love that my visual goes right to Him. I’m always struck by His eternal love for us. I can’t understand it on His grand scale, and I’m so awestruck by Him.

Scripture

Matthew 11:28-30 “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.”

Psalm 23:1-4 The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he refreshes my soul. He guides me along the right paths for his name’s sake Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.”

Psalm 139:17-18 How precious to me are your thoughts, God! How vast is the sum of them! Were I to count them, they would outnumber the grains of sand— when I awake, I am still with you.”

Life Application

1. Embrace Vulnerability: Don’t be afraid to acknowledge your feelings, even the negative or sad ones. Vulnerability can lead to a deeper connection with God and others.
2. Practice Gratitude: Focus on the blessings in your life, big and small. Gratitude can shift your perspective and bring joy.
3. Seek God’s Comfort: When you feel overwhelmed, turn to God in prayer and meditation. Spend time in His Word and allow His peace to fill your heart.
4. Practice Self-Care: Take care of your physical and emotional well-being. Adequate rest, healthy eating, and regular exercise can help you cope with stress.
5. Share Your Faith: Encourage others by sharing your testimony and the hope you have in Christ.

As we journey through life, it’s natural to long for comfort and security. When we’re feeling vulnerable or unwell, our minds often drift back to childhood, seeking the familiar embrace of our parents. However, as believers, we have the ultimate source of comfort and love: Jesus Christ.

When we’re feeling ill, weak, vulnerable, or lost, we can turn to God in prayer. He is always there to listen, to understand, and to provide the comfort we need, even when we feel whiny. We can pour out our hearts to Him, share our fears and anxieties, and trust that He will care for us.

As we grow older, we may find ourselves longing for the simplicity of childhood. But we can also appreciate the wisdom and experience we’ve gained over the years. We can use this wisdom to draw closer to God and to live a life that honors Him.

Takeaway

During life’s challenges, we can find comfort and strength in the arms of our heavenly Father. By embracing vulnerability, seeking God’s comfort, and practicing self-care, we can experience the fullness of God’s love and grace. May we always turn to Him, trusting in His perfect plan and eternal love. So the next time you’re feeling under the weather, lean your head on his shoulder and receive his sick day blessings in soulful solace.

I’m linking up this month with these AMAZING Blog Hop/Link-Up party hostesses!