As Jesus “went about doing good” (Acts 10:38), He encountered people in various conditions. There were those who were weak physically and others who were weak spiritually. There were some who were physically blind (John 9:1-7) and others spiritually blind. (John 9:40-41) It mattered not whether the infirmity was physical or spiritual, Jesus had the power to bring healing.
On one occasion, Jesus met a man who had been an invalid for thirty-eight years sitting by the pool of Bethesda. We read. . .
“(6) When Jesus saw him lying there and knew that he had already been there a long time, he said to him, “Do you want to be healed?” (7) The sick man answered him, “Sir, I have no one to put me into the pool when the water is stirred up, and while I am going another steps down before me.” (8) Jesus said to him, “Get up, take up your bed, and walk.” (9) And at once the man was healed, and he took up his bed and walked.” (John 5:6-9 ESV)
Perhaps this man had become more comfortable with his way of life then he realized. Did he truly have the desire to be healed? Jesus was willing and did heal him. What a glorious kindness had been shown to this man by our Lord. However, when Jesus met him later He also exhorted him to turn from sin (John 5:14) which should be recognized as even a worse condition than being lame.
Though we do not possess the power to do all the things Jesus did, we still have it within our power to follow in His steps to bring healing to the discouraged, hurting, and troubled. Directing the attention toward God’s way by the example of our life and the words of our mouth can help bring others into the relationship that provides healing to the sin-sick soul. (note Psalms 41:4; Proverbs 3:7-8) Holding out the hope in Christ will provide others with the opportunity to receive the ultimate healing made available through the power of His cleansing blood. Our gracious and kind words can also bring healing to others. (Proverbs 12:18)
Offering whatever encouragement and support we can, may ultimately serve to help others recognize God has a people who truly do love and have a genuine compassion for others, just as Jesus displayed as He walked this earth. Some may accept while others reject our kindnesses but let us continue doing good to others anyway.
Remember Paul’s exhortation to the church at Galatia where we read. . .
“(9) And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up. (10) So then, as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone, and especially to those who are of the household of faith.” (Galatians 6:9-10 ESV)
Have a great day ULTIMATELY POINTING TO CHRIST THE CURE!
Carl
