Pastor's Ponderings, April 20, 2015

God Is Our Healer

According to the LA Times, some former opponents of the Affordable Care Act are changing their minds about the law since millions of Americans now depend upon it.  Whether the law is good or bad, whether the Supreme Court will soon rule and millions will lose coverage, it is important to note that God is very concerned about our health (Jeremiah 8:21-22).  Apparently He approves of good healthcare and Colossians 4:14 refers to Apostle Luke as the beloved physician.

We must know, however, that God is the great physician. He is the only one that can send His word for healing (Psalm 107:19-20).  Medical workers are vessels to be used by God and they are a great blessing, but He is our ultimate healer.

We also have a responsibility for our health and we are admonished to treat our bodies as a "temple of the Holy Spirit" (1 Corinthians 6:19).  While health leaders generally accept that health is comprised of behavioral, genetic, social, and environmental factors, we know that the greatest determinant of health is our Father in Heaven. 

The good news is that God wants us healthy. When people are passionately debating whether or not people deserve healthcare, Christians should remember who is our source of healing.  We do not have to get upset and angry during the current healthcare struggle since a cheerful heart is our good medicine (Proverbs 17:22).  Thank God that He has never changed His mind about our health.

Jeremiah 8:21-22

New International Version (NIV)

21 Since my people are crushed, I am crushed; I mourn, and horror grips me.

22 Is there no balm in Gilead? Is there no physician there?

Why then is there no healing for the wound of my people?

Psalm 107:19-20

New International Version (NIV)

19 Then they cried to the Lord in their trouble, and he saved them from their distress.

20 He sent out his word and healed them: he rescued them from the grave.

Proverbs 4:21-22

New International Version (NIV)

21 Do not let them out of your sight, keep them within your heart;

22 for they are life to those who find them and health to one’s whole body.

Proverbs 17:22
New International Version (NIV)

22 A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones.