Wellness
Wellness, otherwise referred to as the state of being healthy, is a subject all, including Christians should take seriously. Illness as well, is a topic we can’t totally ignore because believers also get sick.
Christians are not immune to disease and illness. It comes to all people regardless of their faith. Christians, like everyone else, are vulnerable to illness. Some Christians and non- Christians erroneously believe that believers who are dedicated should never get sick.
Some others have the misconception that Christians who fall sick are either being punished for their sins or are plainly lacking in faith. I don’t know where this ridiculous idea came from anyway. But one thing that I know is the fact that, it’s certainly not from God’s Word. Consider Paul for example. In his letters he made mention of Timothy’s stomach problems and frequent ailments. Paul also once talked about his illness at Miletus.
Furthermore, he didn’t leave out his friend and co-worker Epaphroditus was so sick at some point that he almost died. And we’re aware too that Paul himself had a serious physical illness. The apostle Paul was one of the greatest men of faith Christianity ever produced, yet he spoke of illness as a natural part of life and suffered illness himself. Consequently, Christians are prone to illness too but it’s important we remember the prayer of faith when our health is challenged with illness.
The Prayer of Faith When confronted with illness
Prayer for healing is a specific kind of prayer. It’s not a dry and lifeless prayer of maybe healing will actually take place. James 5:15 says, “And the prayer of faith shall save the sick, and the Lord shall raise him up; and if he have committed sins, they shall be forgiven him.” Hence, prayer of faith for the sick must be done with confidence and assurance that the answer is on the way.
However, the devil puts a lot of pressure on us to make us give up after we’ve prayed and healing hasn’t taken place in a reasonable amount of time. Instead, I’d have you know that, there’s no specific limit frame regarding the fulfillment of God’s promises. The length of time might vary from person to person or problem to problem. But we must tenaciously hold on to our faith even after we’ve prayed and healing hasn’t occurred.
CONCLUSION
As a matter of stewardship, we should attempt to maintain good health at all times. While we will occasionally become ill, wellness should be our goal. We need to understand that faith is not just spiritual. God is very concerned about our physical health. His will is that we take good care of it. Our bodies are the temple of God.
It therefore means that we have the responsibility of taking very good care of God’s temple. In other words, we serve God well if we take care of our health. I see taking care of my body, as an act of service or sign of devotion to God. That’s the reason Romans 12:1 says, “Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. Wellness is a command.
