Since the onset of POTS almost two decades ago, Dr. Andy Laurie has prayed for his suffering to go away. As his disease and the hardships that come with it have remained, God has led Dr. Andy through a process of clarification, grappling, releasing, and ultimately drawing closer to Jesus and his  promises.

Crystal Keating and Dr. Andy explore aspects of suffering that God can use for good:

• Suffering causes us to focus on things that really matter.
• Suffering can force clarification about our self-image, identity, and priorities.

When incurable or unsolvable problems come, Dr. Andy highlights the need to let go of the “old life” and embrace our new reality (with whatever limitations or struggles it comes with). This process of release and redefinition often includes grief. And without hope in God, self-pity, depression, and despair can take hold.

Dr. Andy shares his own struggle with despair—the temptation to linger and wallow in the dark after his diagnosis. He also shares a turning point that came through prayer. Realizing that God co-suffers with us, as a parent suffers for and with a child, Dr. Andy discovered new depth in his faith journey and his hope-giving trust in God as his Good Father.

Hear how an eternal perspective has ultimately led him to contentment, joy, and peace, even as his illness remains.

Key Question:

• How have you seen God work in the midst of your hardest experiences?
   

Key Scripture:

• “Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day.” 2 Corinthians 4:16

Additional Resources:

• Read more from Dr. Andy Laurie
• Listen to Claire Walker share how POTS radically altered her life

Send Crystal a message with your comments and questions. 

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Joni and Friends envisions a world where every person with a disability finds hope, dignity, and their place in the body of Christ. Founded by international disability advocate Joni Eareckson Tada, the ministry provides Christ-centered care through  Joni's House, Wheels for the World, and Retreats and Getaways, as well as disability ministry training and higher education through the Christian Institute on Disability. 

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Joni and Friends envisions a world where every person with a disability finds hope, dignity, and their place in the body of Christ. Founded by Joni Eareckson Tada, we provide Christ-centered care through Joni's House, Wheels for the World, Retreats and Getaways, and disability ministry training.

Find more encouragement on Joni Eareckson Tada's Sharing Hope podcast and her daily devotional.