Heal Thyself

And he said unto them, Ye will surely say unto me this proverb, Physician, heal thyself: whatsoever we have heard done in Capernaum, do also here in thy country. Luke 4:23 (KJV) 

  

  Being honest about our strengths and limitations is not always easy. We want to be optimistic, positive, and hopeful when approaching goals and dreams. Yet if we are unwise we will set ourselves up for disappointment. 

  By honestly taking into consideration our very real limitations we can properly asses our abilities and make plans for challenges we may face in any situation we find ourselves in. 

  Over many years of afflictions, I have come to realize that I can make plans, but those plans can and often do change. By being somewhat philosophical about fickle fate, we are not brought to the ground with discouragement when everything does not go as we wish. 

   

If you want to make God laugh, tell him about your plans. ---Woody Allen 

  

  I automatically build into my plans the fact that my illnesses may derail my expectations. Circumstances change, and fickle health can change rapidly.  

  We wound ourselves when approaching life with unrealistic expectations. Hope is a wonderful thing, but false hope has defeat written into it. Walking in good mental health involves being honest and making factual mental health and physical health assessments. Know yourself, and be truthful about your weaknesses.

  There are seasons when my health takes a slight uptick in improvement, but more frequently there are downturns in my health situation. I know it is best not to take short seasons of improvement for granted, and not to expect them to last. 

  When the Lord blesses us with improved health we should rejoice, but when things go badly, we should be as mentally and emotionally prepared as possible for such outcomes. In this way we can stay well in soul and spirit despite our physical condition. 

  Prayer: Dear Lord, each day brings us blessings and opportunities, and challenges and difficulties. Whatever today brings, make us whole in spirit and soul. Amen.