Opening Doors and Shutting Others

by Shannon Selle

As is often true, looking back at our past helps us see more clearly. When I reflect on my health struggles over the last year and a half, I recognize where God was guiding me and giving me strength. Honestly, I feel He was also opening some doors and closing others quite forcefully. At the time, I didn’t see it that way, but now, when I’m not in survival mode, I see God at work helping me. This revelation aligns with the profound truth that Philippians 4:13 (NIV) declares: "I can do all this through him who gives me strength."

Anyone who has had an illness, or even something as common as the flu, knows the feeling of fatigue and sleep deprivation. Symptoms like severe headaches and body aches can make it hard to perform tasks or make decisions well. Many times, I felt that way, yet I still had to work, care for my family, and decide on the best medical options. There were many differing opinions about how to relieve the pain, but no clear answer. It was mentally exhausting—and on some days, still is. In those overwhelming moments, I often recalled the comforting words of Isaiah 41:10 (NIV): "So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand."

During this time, I questioned WHY. Why is this happening? Why does my body hurt so badly when I am doing my best to take care of it? I needed relief because I knew my ability to function was crumbling. Looking back, I remember a few moments where I saw God’s hand guiding me.

I felt His guidance as I searched for solutions.  He opened doors for specialist appointments, presented therapies to try, and led me toward answers not only for myself but also for others.  As I found relief for my own pain, I became more aware of others who were suffering. Prayer gave me a sense of calmness before procedures and utter JOY when I experienced relief. It helped me find treatment options and realize that many others were in the same situation. I felt led to help others to heal. This reminded me why I love helping clients feel their best and how awful if feels when pain keeps you from doing what you want.

God is with us through our struggles. He’s there to support us and give us strength. We need to talk to Him and share our burdens. Sometimes His support and love are immediate; other times, life’s distractions blur our connection. But God is always there, in the background, helping us, even when we don’t see it.  This unwavering truth is echoed in Psalm 46:1 (NIV): "God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble."