MONDAY, NOVEMBER 27
Matthew 9:12
James 5:13-16

“My help cometh
from the LORD…”

WHEN YOU ARE SICK

After the last few somewhat “negative” readings (but very important and instructive), let us consider a practical problem which some reader may be facing (now or in the future). What if you, or I, should be struck down with some sickness or accident? What will be your reaction and line of action?

My first reaction is: tell the Lord my problem. Indeed, for every believer, my advice is, in health think sickness, in life think death. Sounds morbid? No, it is wisdom. We must be prepared at all times to meet our Maker. So in sickness, turn first to Him. Did not God’s Word say, “…in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God” (Phil 4:6)? Then we are assured that “the effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much” (James 5:16).

Next, I should see my doctor. As our Lord says, “They that be whole need not a physician, but they that are sick.” God has given us the blessings of modern medical science and trained persons – physicians and surgeons who are equipped to handle most problems. Being a doctor myself, I suppose I should know better than most, that doctors will be able to heal most diseases, except the last. We all must face reality. Doctors are able up to a point. One day they themselves will succumb.

Does God always heal? It is a fatal error to think so. Not even the Apostle Paul was healed. Of course God can heal anyone anytime in any place, but only according to His own sovereign will and pleasure. So we must not always expect to be healed. To hanker after healing all the time is the devil’s snare. Rather we should strive to be more holy, like the Master. In everything give thanks! Even in sickness! God has His perfect plan for everyone of His children, and for each one who is sick, He gives His grace (2 Cor 12:9).

THOUGHT: Am I prepared for the final sickness?
PRAYER: Lord, teach me this lesson: to be with Christ is far better.