I’ve just had a physical exam and the doctor gave me a clean bill of health. I’ve had some medical issues in the past, but at 65 I’m trying my best to eat healthy and get regular exercise. Unfortunately one of my medications increases the number of my red blood cells. The doctor has ordered a therapeutic blood draw every three months to avoid complications.
Before the doctor’s order, I never donated blood. Maybe I was scared? Now I go every three months and feel like a hero! Please consider giving blood and if you currently do, thank you. The one problem I have giving blood is that “I’m a hard stick”. My veins are deep and they roll. Yesterday, I gave blood but three people had to work on getting my blood to flow. From all that poking, I developed a hematoma, a small amount of blood that pooled under my skin resembling a bruise.
When they were finished collecting my blood, I started to feel flush. They elevated my feet, made me wiggle them, put a few ice packs on me and gave me some water and pretzels. It’s a bit embarrassing but it has happened before, I knew the signs and told them immediately and in a few minutes I was back to normal.
Knowing the signs and getting quick help is important. You would think, as a mature Christ follower, I would recognize the signs of a spiritual attack and ask for help right away. There is definitely a difference between feeling depressed, anxious or upset about something and an attack that is directed at you from an “outside source” that seemingly comes out of nowhere. Maybe you have experienced this also.
Last Sunday, I experienced a spiritual attack. I didn’t ask for help, I’m not sure why. I should have known better. Perhaps I wanted to pretend that I had it all together, or I didn’t want anyone to know that I’m less than perfect? In the past I prided myself in being like the rock of Gibraltar, just me and God, nobody else needed thank you. Now I cherish relationships with others.
The next morning I received a text from my friends Rich and Laurie. They were having their morning devotions and they felt led to pray for me. It made a big difference. I wish I had contacted them right away the night before. Next time, when I’m beginning to feel spiritually flush, I’ll let my friends know that I need some “ice packs”. Oft times we need the help of others, especially those who know how to pray. It doesn’t matter if it’s a spiritual attack or just something I need to deal with, it’s better to have the help of friends.