Consider this…
R.R. Byrum writes, “The conditions for healing are few and simple. The primary and all-important condition is faith. It was unbelief at Nazareth that hindered the performance of many mighty works there. The disciples failed to cure the demoniac son because of their unbelief. Jesus said to one who raised a question as to his ability, “If thou canst believe all things are possible to him that believeth.” The prayer of faith shall save the sick.” The faith necessary to healing is not a mere theoretical or intellectual belief in God’s power, but a trustful and confident stepping out on the divine promise as applying to the present need. It is a bold reliance upon God to heal a particular ailment at a particular time. Faith is not a mere arbitrary requirement for healing. Faith is that which connects the healing with God in the consciousness of him who prays. If healing were given by God without faith on the part of him who prays, the person would not have those feelings of gratitude which mean so much to his spiritual well-being and God’s glory. Faith for healing is of the same essential nature and is necessary for the same reasons as is faith for other benefits in answer to prayer,” (Christians Theology, 1925).
Yet, scholars also acknowledge that sometimes there is more at work than just “faith.” The Bible tells us that “it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment:” (Hebrews 9:27). Job was allowed to be afflicted by Satan to reveal his character & faith, (Book of Job in the Old Testament). Additionally, God “stretched out my hand, that I may smite thee and the people with pestilence,” (Exodus 9:15), as punishment upon Pharoah for refusing to free God’s people. In other passages, we learn sin causes much sorrow, and the actions of others, along with our own actions, can bring sicknesses, calamites, and suffering upon ourselves that we must endure – apart from the spiritual forgiveness we can find in Christ. Simply, it is not always God’s Holy Will to take away all suffering or to heal us of every affliction on this side of eternity. Often, the Lord chooses to use us, (and our infirmities), for His purposes – to encourage, to strengthen, and to be witnesses – not only for our own benefit, but also for the benefit of others, and for His own Glory. May our greatest desire as faithful followers of the Lord be to wholeheartedly say, “Thy will be done!”
Pastor Chris
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