I had to believe for me.
In this “fake news” climate, it is easy to doubt reports we hear. Unfortunately, this post-truth society threatens to rob us of happiness and deprive us of true faith. I have come to learn that what we choose to believe, is of utmost importance, for it could mean the difference between life or death, peace or constant anxiety, joy or sadness.
I had to believe for me. I had to believe that God would, that He could answer my prayers for healing. Lying in a hospital bed for a month and recovering at home for several months gave me a lot of time to think, pray and read. Very much aware of my own mortality, I yet believed that I had more time on the clock. I was in need of physical healing desperately, so I chose to read the Gospel accounts of the life of Christ and His works of healing. As I did this, my confidence and courage increased, and my prayers had power. If He did it for them, could He not do it for me? This made all of the difference in my state of mind during my recovery. I prayed with renewed faith, trusting and believing that Jesus loved me and was also moved with compassion at my situation.
I realize that all of our prayers are not answered in the way we might expect or even want. However, I am certain of Jesus’ love for us. He cares for us and is moved with compassion at the human condition.
A man with leprosy came and knelt in front of Jesus, begging to be healed. “If you are willing, you can heal me and make me clean,” he said. Moved with compassion, Jesus reached out and touched him. “I am willing,” he said. “Be healed!” Mark 1:40, 41 NLT