Lenten Series: In Need of The Helper
Lent is a liturgical observance and season of reflection; not a biblical mandate. It is simply a time to remind ourselves and appreciate the abundant grace of Christ’s saving work on the cross. It is a time to press in deeper in submission to Christ’s authority as we prepare our hearts to celebrate, with exceedingly great joy, the resurrection that awaits every believer and follower.
In our Lenten daily devotionals, we will focus on our spiritual needs and desires and how the Helper is our Gift for strength and success if we will bow in greater submission to the authority of our King and the terms of His Kingdom of righteousness, peace, and joy in the Spirit.
Reflection: Healing
Digging for Truth: When we pray for healing either for ourselves or for our loved ones, I believe God begins something very miraculous, but healing is not always instantaneous. Granted, I would like for every healing to bring immediate change, but is that always God’s plan? No; I can testify to the fact that I was very ill in my thirties and God touched me and brought healing through a sense of hope, peace, and spiritual well-being, but it would be a gradual process for my restoration. Was this a lack of faith on my part? I don’t think so. God chooses to heal us as we stand in faith and persistently pray. Sometimes, God calls us, as a Body, to be praying for the ongoing healing of a person in order to engage more people in his work and to increase our faith and witness.
Grace for the Heart: Grace and healing always go together, because salvation is by grace through faith in our Healer and really has nothing to do with our efforts; it’s a gift from God (Ephesians 2:8). God is always first interested in our spiritual healing—making us holy—because then we can open ourselves up to receive emotional and physical healing. For this reason, some times we get stuck thinking God hasn’t healed us or others physically, yet all the while God is healing and bringing wholeness. Who are we to measure his wholeness or where he needs to start? I believe in the power of grace to heal us and use us to heal others. How that is done, is up to God!
Luke 11:9 NLT “And so I tell you, keep on asking, and you will receive what you ask for. Keep on seeking, and you will find. Keep on knocking, and the door will be opened to you.”
Mark 16:17, 18b CEV: 17 Everyone who believes me will be able to do wonderful things. By using my name they will…heal sick people by placing their hands on them.
Challenge: Be persistent in prayer each day. Place your faith before the Lord. Pray and ask…and keep on asking. Be specific to pray for the Spirit to bring wholeness to the person’s spiritual health as he brings wholeness to emotions and physical health, as well. Every child of God is an instrument of healing, so pray for people. Lay your hands on them and ask God to begin the miracle of healing in them.
Prayer: Lord, you are the Healer and we are instruments of grace. Help us to use faith in order to place ourselves in your work of salvation and healing. Salvation is a miracle, so every healing emerges from the Spirit who brings new life. Thank you, Lord, for helping us place ourselves under your mighty hand to be blessed, as well as using us to be a blessing to others. In Jesus’ name. Amen.