I have written several pieces to post this week, but as I reread them, I find their value diminished in light of current events. At least four people in my “circle” are experiencing health problems ranging from fairly common to very serious. The words of support are just not coming to me. Just being present with those people who are suffering is invaluable I know, but keeping silent about salvation through Jesus Christ seems like a bad choice. It’s no secret that I am a Christian. I know where I will spend eternity. I don’t know, however, if many of “my people”, the sick or the well, have that same assurance. I am sad and worried. This is the part where I need advice from the Word of God.
Paul says this in his letter to Timothy in 1 Timothy chapter 2 ..” First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people, for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way. This is good, and it is pleasing in the sight of God our Savior, who desires all people to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth. For there is one God, and there is one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus, who gave himself as a ransom for all, which is the testimony given at the proper time.”
Paul was in his last days when he was writing this letter to Timothy. He could have been focusing on himself and his dire circumstances, but he chose to continue praying for all to come to know Jesus. His priority was to encourage Timothy and the churches to keep the faith.
My prayers and my words need to encourage. I know that not all healing happens here, and that there will be ultimate healing in heaven. So, I pray that my words speak peace and life, of a real hope and not empty promises. When I am at a loss for words in my prayers, Romans 8:26 assures me, “Likewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness. For we do not know what to pray for as we ought, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words.”
So, for now I will continue to pray for God’s will in all of these situations. I pray for discernment for the doctors and nurses and for peace for the families. I most fervently pray for hope for all who are sick and that healing comes quickly.
Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective. James 5:16
Prayer: Thank you, Jesus, for forgiving my sins so that my eternal heavenly future is assured. Please let me be a light that would bring many to you. In Jesus’ name I pray. AMEN
Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Matthew 11:28
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