In Sickness and Health

by Donna Shepherd
Published January 5, 2005

I’m one of the healthiest people I know. I try to maintain a positive outlook on life, and thank God every day for my health.

Recently a nasty bug invaded my body and wreaked havoc on me. After three long days, I feel better and almost back to my old self. No further comment on the ‘old.’

Being sick made me so thankful. Does that sound odd? While I lay in bed, I thought of those who feel sick in body day after day. How many people suffer for months, sometimes years with a sickness? And then I feel badly for three days and complain? Not me. I made the attempt to say very little. Although my family might argue the point, I tried valiantly to suffer in silence knowing this too would pass. Okay, maybe one or two complaints crossed my lips, but I did try!

When we become sick or something bad happens, our faith can be tested. At times, Satan works against us, but we can’t blame every ailment on Satan. While we are on earth, we live in a frail body subject to decay and illness. Corruption entered the world through sin. But we have hope in that while this body perishes, our soul lives forever with the Lord when we’ve made Him Lord of our life.

In Ecclesiastes 3:3, King Solomon wrote there is a time for everything including a time for healing. God can and does heal. He created our bodies to fight off disease and heal wounds. God give us the knowledge to create medicine and traditional cures. At times, He miraculously heals us. Our sickness allows God to show Himself as our Healer.

Why aren’t we all healed while on earth? Healing may come in this life or not until we reach Heaven. I don’t know why some people live with abundant health while others struggle. The reason some Christians fail to receive healing remains a secret, known only to God.

Those of you who struggle, I pray for God’s healing power for your body. I pray those of us who are relatively healthy will remember to thank God for our health and pray for those in need of a miracle.

“Dear friend, I pray that you may enjoy good health and that all may go well with you, even as your soul is getting along well.” (3 John 1:2 NIV)

Whew! I’m praising the Lord that nasty bug has left me alone!

Prayer: God, I thank You for health, and for healing my body. I ask that You touch those today in need of a miracle of healing physically, emotionally, or spiritually. Grant those who are discouraged peace and comfort through the Holy Spirit. In Jesus’ Name I pray, Amen.

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