Pain saved me from myself.
A twisted bowel can be fatal if left unchecked. That’s what a friend told me after my medical incident last week. “It’s a good thing you called 9-1-1 when you did. Prompt attention matters.”
In a real way, pain is a gift from God.
Pain is among the most important signals our body gives to help us survive. It can alert us to harmful changes in the body, like cancer, or help us learn to avoid something harmful, like touching a hot stove. In this way, some forms of pain keep us safe.
Dr Paul Brand wrote the book, “Fearfully and Wonderfully Made.” 
Dr. Brand, a renowned leprosy surgeon, was a pioneer in understanding and treating leprosy, particularly focusing on the role of pain and nerve damage in the disease’s progression. His work demonstrated that loss of pain sensation in leprosy patients made them vulnerable to injuries and tissue damage, often leading to significant disfigurement. He and his wife, Margaret Brand, also contributed significantly to the field of leprosy treatment and rehabilitation.
Brand says, “The brain’s total number of connections rivals the stars and galaxies of the universe.”
Fearfully and wonderfully. Amen.
Have you experienced the life saving benefits of pain? Please join the conversation below and post a comment.
Hope grows here. We share stories that inspire people, build faith, and offer lasting purpose.
We’d love to have you Subscribe to REVwords. We’ll put helpful content into your inbox Mondays and Fridays.
