Aug 14 – He Heals!

“The Lord will strengthen him on his bed of illness; You will sustain him on his sickbed.” (Psalm 41:3)

The Bible speaks of many different beds. Elijah, weary and discouraged, lay down beneath the broom tree. Jonah, unwilling to obey the will of God and fleeing in the opposite direction, lay asleep in the ship. Later, in anger toward the Lord, he sat beneath a vine. Samson lay in the lap of harlots, upon a bed of sinful pleasure. Although many lay down for different reasons, one particular bed draws our attention.

It was the bed beside the Pool of Bethesda. There lay a man who had been afflicted for thirty-eight years. Having lost all hope, he remained there, watching many others receive healing in the pool. Yet there was no one to help him into the water when it was stirred.

In fulfilment of the Scripture, “The Lord will strengthen him on his bed of illness…” (Psalm 41:3)

Jesus Christ, rich in mercy, came to the Pool of Bethesda. Looking upon the man with compassion, He asked, “Do you want to be made well?” (John 5:6)

Then He said, “Rise, take up your bed and walk.” (John 5:8)

The Bible records: “And immediately the man was made well, took up his bed, and walked.” (John 5:9)

It is often said that we appreciate the value of shade only when we stand in the scorching heat. In the same way, we frequently fail to appreciate the blessing of good health that the Lord has graciously given us. We do not thank Him as we ought. It is often only when we are confined to a sickbed that we begin to realize the precious gift of health.

When illness comes, call upon the Lord in faith. He is the Great Physician above every earthly doctor. He asks: “Behold, I am the Lord, the God of all flesh. Is there anything too hard for Me?” (Jeremiah 32:27)

When David was confined to his sickbed, there were those who waited for him to die. During times of illness, some people may come and speak words of unbelief that weaken your spirit. Others may choose that very moment to discuss family disputes or matters of inheritance.

But you must speak with faith, saying: “I shall not die, but live, And declare the works of the Lord.” (Psalm 118:17)

Make this commitment before God: “Lord, if You will prolong my life, I will be Your witness. I will serve You faithfully and exalt Your holy name.”

The Lord will surely honour such a heart. He will extend your days, transform your bed of sickness into a place of restoration, and bless you with renewed health, strength, and vitality.

Verse for further meditation: “He who would love life And see good days, Let him refrain his tongue from evil, And his lips from speaking deceit. Let him turn away from evil and do good; Let him seek peace and pursue it.” (1 Peter 3:10–11)