My Healing Journey - Part I

Life threw me an unexpected curve recently. I was confronted with health issues I've never dealt with before. Currently, I am undergoing tests and doctor's appointments to determine the source of the problem. This is a new experience for me - and to be honest, I don't like it! Smile.

I have had to cancel a trip to Romania & Moldova, as well as release other ministry obligations that I truly enjoy. While I know it is but for a season, it has been difficult. I am a teacher. My heart fills rich satisfaction and joy when I am able to teach truths that help others. I've been doing this for nearly 30 years, and know it is God's will for my life. As I thought on this, I realized I can still help others by sharing my present journey. I can share the truths I am learning along the way and rejoice in the victory with those who journey with me.

Here is what I KNOW so far: 1) I am going to regain and surpass my former strength! 2) I already have my healing - Christ in me, the Hope of Glory! 3) God is GOOD and is working ALL things for my good.

When the symptoms first manifested, I chose to ignore them...until God made it clear that ignoring symptoms isn't faith. Faith looks infirmity in the eye and deals with it. I felt led to set aside all books and tapes on healing and instead, study it for myself. I believe the Father wants to reveal these truths to me in a personal way...teach me things I've not seen or understood before. I am studying with great anticipation and already learning new things! God's Word is AMAZING!

Here is one of the first truths He revealed to me...

Matthew 4:23-24 shares the dawning of Christ's earthly ministry. He is on the road, traveling about, teaching in the synogogues, and preaching the gospel of the kingdom - the rule and reign, the dominion of God. But His ministry is more than words...it is action. It is more than promotion of theological theories or doctrine...it is an expression of truth. As He travels, teaching and preaching, He also heals.

The word "healing" and "healed" in the scripture portion come from a Greek word meaning, "to wait upon menially, to adore God, to relieve of disease, to heal, cure, worship." Jesus preached the gospel and then He got down to earth's level and demonstrated it. He taught the kingdom and then brought the kingdom. He confronted the reigning principalities and powers and replaced their rule with His Own. No sickness could stand in His Presence. One Word from His lips was enough to evict the disease that held the person as a prisoner for so long. It was miraculous!

Why don't we see more of this today? I've been studying and meditating on this topic for days. I am coming to understand that there are many reasons for the lack of healing, signs, and wonders in the church today. It is not one thing - but many - that hinders the manifestation of God's kingdom. A few of the reasons are perhaps addressed in this scripture. Let's consider two insights gained from these verses:

First, the people came to Jesus with expectancy. They didn't come expecting to return the way they came! It undoubtably took effort to get the sick to Jesus, but the people transporting them were convinced it was worth it. They believed Jesus would heal. They didn't pray for healing while building their coffin! They believed. They hoped. They were convinced of His power and ability, as well as His willingness to heal. Are we?

Secondly, I believe Jesus delighted in healing the sick. This is why they could come to Him with such expectation. Based on the definition of the word "healing" used in this passage, I believe that every healing and/or relieving of disease was an act of worship to Jesus. When He healed someone, He was loving His Father...for His Father loved these people. He was honoring His Father's supremecy and power over sickness and demonic manifestations. He was adoring His Father's creation. This is the only explanation for the King of all Kings to personally (menially) take the time and effort to relieve each person of their disease. He lowered Himself. He cared.

When ministering to the sick or coming to Christ for healing of our own bodies, we too must come with expectation. We can expect Jesus to heal them or us for so many reasons! From this portion alone, we know He delights in healing. He's willing to take the time and effort. He sees relieving their pain, suffering, sickness,or bondage, as an act of worship - He sees healing us as an act of adoration. This eliminates the doubt of His willingness to heal.

Let us pray with expectation!