How can a Christian live with a debilitating disability and not waste their lives?

It's an important question from a listener named Sarah.

Hello, Pastor John.

I've enjoyed listening to your podcast for several years.

My husband and I actually started our dating relationship by listening to and discussing

as Pastor John episodes together.

I mean, that is how you start a relationship right.

I was very encouraged by your episode, God's Sovereign Plans, Behind Your Most Unproductive

Days.

And my question is related.

I've had chronic illness for several years and I'm struggling to understand God's

purpose in it.

Five years ago, I left my job to serve as an intern on the mission field in Haiti.

After the internship, I started to pursue a longer term on the mission field, but doors

clearly closed and my health problems began.

I settled into my church, became involved there and met my husband.

I was working at a job I loved and often invited co-workers to church, but my health continued

to worsen and last year I had to quit my job altogether.

I've also had to drop out of serving at church and frequently cannot even attend on Sunday.

I've spent thousands of dollars I would gladly give to missions on medication and treatments.

Time I would gladly serve the Lord with or invest in others is eaten up by doctor's appointments

too.

...