Does faith heal? A major American news magazine just devoted a recent issue to this question. There was a balanced presentation of all sides of the question. It is clear that to some degree a person of faith heals quicker, lives longer, and lives healthier. Some are convinced that the data is being misinterpreted, that there must be other factors at work that have not been identified. Others assume that the benefits of faith are psychological: that is, if you believe strongly enough in something, you may feel better because you are convinced in your mind that you will.

However, it is evident that faith plays some role in health and healing. I am not surprised by these findings. I am a Christian. I know God heals. But I am not a Christian because it makes me healthier. Or wealthier. Or wiser. I am a Christian because I believe that there is a God who loves me and who sent a Son to this earth so I could live forever. My faith is not about how I can use it to make my life better. It is about believing in what God has already done for me.

Yes, God does take care of us on this earth. He said:

Is any one of you sick? He should call the elders of the church to pray over him and anoint him with oil in the name of the Lord. And the prayer offered in faith will make the sick person well; the Lord will raise him up (James 5:14-15).

Science is just now beginning to affirm something we Christians have known for a long time. God acts on behalf of his people. I am never surprised when science “discovers” that what God said in the Bible is true. My faith does not depend on what scientists decide. I am convinced that God is who he says he is.

God still heals the sick, just like He promised.
As a Christian, I know that God is the One who heals. When I am sick, I ask Him for healing. If he grants health, I acknowledge Him. If not, it is His decision and I still acknowledge Him as God. My faith is what allows me to trust God with my health. And I trust Him with my health just like with everything else in my life.

If you would like to explore this idea of faith more, check out www.hopeforlife.org. Or write me at steve@hopeforlife.org.


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