A Journey of Faith: How Abiding in Jesus Brought Healing and Strength in the Midst of Pain
by Jennifer Greene-Sullivan
The past week has been challenging for both Liam and me as we battled sickness that seemed relentless. Yet, through the moments of fatigue and the days that felt like they stretched on forever, I found myself learning what it truly means to abide—to remain rooted and steadfast in Jesus, even when life feels overwhelming.
Liam’s Sweet Pallet Nap
Finding Comfort in the Struggle
There were moments when exhaustion pulled at my spirit, making it hard to keep my eyes on anything but the discomfort. Ultimately, it was in these moments that I leaned harder into the promise that Jesus is with us through every storm. I, at times, cried out my prayers not just for healing but for the strength to keep my heart and mind focused on His presence.
The Testimony That Strengthened My Faith
This recent season of sickness brought back memories of February 2023, when I faced one of the hardest physical challenges of my life. It all started while I was walking my Jack Russell and chiweenie when they suddenly began to fight. In an attempt to break them apart, I picked up my chiweenie by the leash, making a sharp movement that severely herniated an already bulging disc in my lower back.
The following four months were marked by excruciating sciatic nerve pain that made standing, sitting, or lying down unbearable. I barely slept and fought to keep up with teaching without missing work. Surgery was scheduled for June 5, 2023, but during those difficult months, I clung to the belief that Jesus could and would heal me. I held on to Isaiah 53:5: “But He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities; the chastisement of our peace was upon Him; and with His stripes, we are healed.” I praised Him each day, especially during the early morning hours when pain and exhaustion were at their peak. I immersed myself in healing scriptures like Psalm 103:2-3: “Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all His benefits: Who forgiveth all thine iniquities; who healeth all thy diseases.” I recited and prayed these verses, and I took communion daily as an act of faith.
My family, both at home and at school, offered sweet and supportive care as my mobility was severely limited. By the end of May, I was fully trusting in Jesus’ promise that by His stripes, I am healed. When my pastor invited me to a healing meeting at a church in Fitzgerald, GA, I agreed, even as I prepared to share my testimony about my daughter’s deliverance. During that evening, God spoke to me to share about His healing of my cancerous cervix in 2015 and the miraculous birth of my healthy son just a year later.
As I shared my story, Jeremiah 30:17 resonated in my heart: “For I will restore health unto thee, and I will heal thee of thy wounds, saith the Lord.” The room filled with His presence, and miracles unfolded before my eyes—cancers were healed, wombs were restored, and lives were touched. Suddenly, then, as I prayed for others, God moved in me. That night, my short leg grew out, my spine straightened, and my herniation was miraculously healed. Though it took a month for the nerve damage to fully settle, the pain and limitations were gone. When I visited my orthopedic surgeon for my pre-op appointment in June, he was baffled, even checking for scars, convinced that surgery had already taken place. But it hadn’t—I had only leaned on my faith and walked it out with Jesus. Thankfully, I did not have surgery, nor have I had back issues since that day in May of 2023.
The Lesson of Abiding
This experience, along with this week’s challenges, reaffirmed that abiding isn’t about grand gestures or perfectly planned devotionals. It’s about the quiet moments when we choose to cling to Him, even in pain and uncertainty. It’s about knowing that His promises hold true, that He works in ways we can’t always predict, and that He heals and restores beyond what we could ever imagine.
Application
To practice abiding in Jesus this week, take time to reflect on His promises in scripture. Set aside moments throughout the day to be still in His presence, whether through prayer, reading the Word, or listening to worship music. Trust that He is working in your life, even when you don’t immediately see the results.
Challenge: Choose a healing or comforting scripture and make it your declaration each day. Let it remind you that Jesus is with you and that His power to heal and restore is still active today.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for being our Healer and Sustainer. Even in our darkest moments, You are with us, carrying us and reminding us of Your steadfast love. I pray that You strengthen those who are weary and struggling, bringing Your peace and healing into their lives. Help us to abide in You, to trust in Your promises, and to know that Your love never fails. May we walk each day in the confidence that, by Your stripes, we are healed. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
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The Aging English Major 