Have you ever felt guilty during a chronic illness flare that you are unable to read God’s Word due to brain fog? I have.

Here are some things that I have found helpful:

1. Listen to an audio Bible.
2. Read just one verse. If you are able, write down the verse. Post the verse around the house if you can. Read a verse or two throughout the day. This may not be the time to read through the Bible in a year.
3. Listen to trusted sermons or podcasts. Even if you fall asleep through part of it, it is okay. The parts you hear may encourage your heart.
4. Listen to or read godly novels and stories that act as parables when our brains are foggy. They can encourage our spirit!
5. Give yourself grace.

What about praying during these times of extreme pain, weakness, fatigue, and brain fog?

First, God knows our human weakness. God knows our heart.

With that in mind, simply talk to Him as you can. Turn your heart to Him. Your prayers may not be long or flowery during these times. If you are on a lot of medications, they may not even be incredibly clear to others. However, God knows our hearts. The Bible tells us that the Holy Spirit will pray for us. Romans 8:26, “²⁶ Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered.”

When you are in the good times, soak in the word and prayer. Then, when you are in the difficult times, do what you can. God knows our weaknesses.