If being a Christian meant we never had to suffer there would be queues a mile long to join up. Just because you believe in God doesn't mean that you will have an easy life - look at all the places in the world where Christians are being persecuted because of their faith. God gives us the strength to cope with things through our relationship with Him. Have you ever read the footsteps poem? Its really great.

I find that I pray a lot during the day and a lot of it is about giving me the strength to bear whatever is going on that day and I find that this really helps. Hope your pain eases soon.

That is one of the ignorant questions we hear. I mean really? It's like if you are Christian you don't suffer don't get cancer don't lose loved ones. I am a Christian and I have suffered as much loss and pain as anyone. Having God in my life helps me DEAL with it better and makes me more understanding for others. Not so evidently by who you talked to. Ignore that surround yourself with understanding people who care about you.

I am thankful for my life journey because the path has only strengthened my faith and has given me the opportunity to have time to write about HeartPath. We are all blessed and going towards the pain actually reduces the pain. Having FM is also a constant reminder of the importance of gratitude and mindfulness. It helped me slow down and smell the roses so to say. Being a "workaholic" and ADHD I only had one speed over 80 mph lol. The Apostle Paul reminds us that the kingdom of God is within and he was content in all things because of Christ Jesus. He may have been physically in prison, however, he was able to escape in the Spirit. We are all capable of doing this with practice, patience, and a "pure heart." Matthew 5:8 Excellent discussion great question.

I think God allows us to experience things in order for us to learn something. In all the problems, there is some nugget of truth that He wants us to understand. We can't understand it all, that's why HE IS GOD and not us. Now, when we get to heaven we will understand it all.
Also, the bible doesn't say He won't give you more than you can stand alone. He promises that He will allow you a way of escape (meds, therapy, prayer, support of others). He also promises He will be with you through it all and never forsake you.
I hope your friend can grow some compassion in the dirt she is slinging!!

I try to look at it not as a person insulting you or not trying to understand - but I would try to look at it as if God has sent that person specifically to you so you may have an opportunity to praise God and help them grow in their faith. ...They will learn not only about Fibromyalgia but about God's love, protection, faithfulness and promise. God's people will suffer trials. He never said we would have a pain-free, stress-free, easy life! I totally hate Fibromyalgia. I KNOW God is of love, not pain. He doesn't give me disease and YES he can heal me at any moment he wants.

HE has healed me in the past of arthritis pain for 8 years and Lactose intolerant for 11 years and counting.
I do have arthritis pain now - but i don't blame God. This is not a statement that anyone is doing that - it's just to say I am not perfect - so I need HIS strength and healing. I seek it constantly. Since I KNOW He can and has healed me in the past - why would he let me suffer now? ...Maybe to allow me to use it to Glorify Him.

Psalm 118:28
You are my God, and I give thanks to You; You are my God, I extol You.

Psalm 63:3
Because Your lovingkindness is better than life, My lips will praise You.

My granddaughter was born with Gastroschesis (her small intestines, large intestines grew and developed outside her body. Her stomach kept going in and out of her body) She was in the hospital for 3 months after birth and had 2 surgeries and 3 blood transfusions. We would go to the NICU everyday and smile and laugh - take tons of pictures and just bond with her little body. We were not sad except 1 day. We are human and had our day to cry... but that day and all the other days we were happy to have a beautiful baby that God gave us. He saved her from death. Yes she had to suffer much but she is alive and happy.

So my suffering is a way to reach others to share my faith and give encouragement thru laughter and friendship.

So her misunderstanding of God is your open door to speak with her. She may or may not truly be saved. If she is not sure - well perhaps you can guide her to God. If she is - she may be a young Christian and needs a mentor.

Either way - you are using your Fibromyalgia to reach others and glorify God. That I hope makes you feel wonderful to know you are working for our Savior. What a great gift given to you of this opportunity.

I am glad He sent that woman to you - you are a strong, beautiful, wonderful lady and know you will turn this into a wonderful gift to God.