( Matt. 26:41 ; Eph. 5:18 ; 1 Cor. 6:12-13 ; 1 Cor. 6:19-20 ; 2 Pet. 2:18-19 ) Our physical condition may influence our response to spiritual needs. But regardless of our need, of our being under a heavy load, God can and will give peace and joy to those in need. Recognize, however, that God may not choose to heal the believer.

( Deut. 32:39 ; Ps. 115:3 ) God does whatever He pleases. He may allow the physical problem to remain to further and deepen maturity and for effective ministry.

( Jere. 29:11 ) Regardless of what has happened to you, keep your focus on the Lord. God will provide for your welfare, to give you a future and a hope. Thus, faith speaks of future events with as much certainty as though they were already passed. Thus, look for the spiritual growth and development of the inner man ( Rom. 4:17 ; 2 Cor. 4:17-18 ).

( Rom. 8:28-29 ) My responsibility is to insure that I am thinking and living according to God's principles. My goal is not to seek my needs primarily but to accomplish God's purposes in my life. Regardless of the adversities or the consequences, being obedient to God's will in all things, I will overwhelmingly conquer through Jesus Who loves me.

( Matt. 5:3-12 ) God's peace and joy are available to believers regardless of others, of possessions or the lack of them, or of the circumstances of life. The key is to develop the character of Christ, to think as He does, to act accordingly. Though the outer man may perish, it is the inner man that is developing and growing.

( Rom. 8:28-29 ; Matt. 6:7-8 ) Whether I have been born with a physical defect or problem, through carelessness, negligence, or an accident caused by others, my focus is to be on the God, and to approach the situation His way. Regardless of any limitation, physical or mental, work out the situation to its fullest being empowered and energized by the Holy Spirit. Transcend any limitations by maximizing what you do have.

( Isa. 46:9-11 ; Phil. 1:6 ; Phil. 2:13 ) My job is turn any thoughts off of myself and obey God's commands for the moment that lies just ahead. Allow God to be His fullest through me at the present moment bringing to past His purposes. By obeying, God works in me to complete and to mature me in the image of His Son.

( 2 Cor. 6:3-10 ; 2 Cor. 12:7-10 ; Job 42:1-6 ) Maintain the integrity of God's word and promises in your life, that despite afflictions, hardships, distresses, beatings, hunger and pain, rely on His presence within. In the midst of sorrows, of dishonor, of evil reports, His Presence within, His strength will fill you with rejoicing. For in Him you are an overwhelming conqueror.