John 8:12, English Standard Version

“Again Jesus spoke to them, saying, ‘I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.’”

In this world we will have troubles including sickness. Some would pray and trust in the Lord for healing. Some will see a doctor or specialist and hope that they will have the right treatment to get well. I believe God can use both ways to restore our body to good health. Somehow, both ways can be similar, and we can even learn about what it means to follow Jesus in both.

“…Jesus said, ‘It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick.’” (Matthew 9:12, ESV)

As said, when we are feeling unwell, we pray, and we may go to see the doctor. After a thorough check up or test, we are often offered treatment and medication as well as instruction as to how to take it. If we want to get better, we will make sure to follow the instructions carefully. How many times should we take our medication each day, what time should we take it, and how should we take it? We will not take other medication which could interfere with the treatment. We listen and we obey the instructions of the doctor. It sounds ridiculous for anyone to blame the doctor for not getting well if they have not taken their prescribed medicine, or followed the instructions that they were given.

So, in the same way, when we are feeling unwell mentally, emotionally, or spiritually… we go to seek Jesus – the Healer, the Commander, the Savior. He reveals to you that you have a need for a healthy life, and He convicts you concerning what is wrong and the changes that need to be made in your lifestyle. He gives you instructions and asks you to follow them daily. He promises you a good future if you carefully apply His orders in your life daily. But if you choose to mix these instructions with the things that He does not suggest it will hinder the process. If you start the treatment but stop after only a few days, or only do it when you feel like it, you will never get well. If you did these things, wouldn’t it sound ridiculous to blame Jesus for the lack of change in your situation?

My dear friends, you know the exact answer! “He (Jesus) heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.” (Psalm 147:3, ESV) This is His promise, and He said, “…follow me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” (John 8:12, ESV) We can only receive the Light of life by following Jesus. Do you heed and obey Him?