And the prayer offered in faith will make the sick person well; the Lord will raise him up. If he as sinned, he will be forgiven. James 5:15
We live in a society that thrives on the pursuit of health. The miracles of modern medicine have contributed to a longer life span. Many are waking up to the fact that obesity is killing them, and a movement is taking hold to lose the weight and live a healthier life. Everyday someone new touts the possibility of health and happiness by following an easy seven-step plan - the first of which is to buy the book. We are chasing a dream - a dream of healing - a dream of wholeness and good health.
Still, the one solution that brings success eludes many who long for happiness and health. In all their pursuits, the real healing never comes.
The solution is two-fold. Prayer and forgiveness.
In his letter to the church, James tells those who are sick to ask for prayer. Prayers offered in faith can bring about healing. But there's another piece to this puzzle. Forgiveness. James' words show a direct link between sickness and sin. Referring to the sick man, he says, "If he has sinned, he will be forgiven." Without forgiveness - without addressing the sin, real healing will never come.
Lord, I have been chasing a dream. For years my pursuit of wholeness has been hindered because I thought I could find the solution and keep the sin. In truth, the sin has to go! There is no hope unless I am walking with You - every step of the way. Keep opening the doors, Lord. Help me to find the help from Your Body. Help me to find the healing You promise.
Forgive my sin, Father. Make me whole.