James 5:1-20 Much research is being done to find cures for diseases like AIDS and cancer. These are diseases that so far have no cure-all. These are also diseases that are affected by the strength of our immune system. This passage in James gives a cure-all for ill health, but few avail themselves of this cure. James lists four things in this passage that will help bring healing to our bodies:
1. Call for the elders.
2. Let them anoint you with oil and pray with faith for you.
3. Confess your faults one to another so you may be healed.
4. Pray for one another that you may be healed.
When we are sick, usually the first thing we do is run to the doctor. Doctors treat the symptoms of our illness, but if the root cause is not determined, we may be vulnerable to another attack of illness. Often when we are bitter toward someone, our immune system becomes defiled. We are more vulnerable to disease. This is not to say that a root of bitterness causes all illness, because we live in a fallen world where disease germs are easily transmitted. We can, however, make sure there is no unforgiveness or bitterness in us, and thereby we can help our immune system to fight off disease.
Often I find that if I have opened myself to strife with another person, I have also opened myself to sickness. By praying for others more, I believe we are less subject also to hypochondria, which also can lead to real sickness.
When I become ill, I usually ask the Lord if I need to get right with another person. If I receive no response from the Spirit as I seek Him, then I hit the vitamin C and ask for others to pray for me. My usual last resort is to call the doctor. I want to give Doctor Jesus every chance to heal me.
Lord, I try to take good care of my body by eating healthy and exercising, but often I neglect what needs to be even more healthy than my body—my own heart. If there is anything in my heart today such as bitterness or unforgiveness, please show me. If You will help me keep my heart in good condition, I know this will also help the condition of my body. Thank You, Father, for Your provision for health. His name is Jesus.
READ: Ezekiel 42:1-43:27; James 5:1-20; Psalm 119:1-16; Proverbs 28:6-7
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