In this fallen world, sickness can occur for various reasons, and it's not always directly due to the work of the enemy. When Jesus walked the earth, He healed the sick and delivered people from evil spirits, showing His power over both the natural and spiritual realms. However, even Jesus did not eliminate all sickness during His earthly ministry. Let's explore what the Bible says about sickness and healing.
Firstly, sickness can be a result of living in a fallen world, where the creation itself is subject to decay and corruption. As Romans 8:20-22 WEB tells us, "For the creation was subjected to vanity, not of its own will, but because of him who subjected it, in hope that the creation itself also will be delivered from the bondage of decay into the liberty of the glory of the children of God. For we know that the whole creation groans and travails in pain together until now."
Secondly, sickness can be a consequence of sin, as illustrated in the Old Testament. However, it's crucial to avoid simplistic interpretations that attribute every instance of sickness to personal sin. In John 9:2-3 WEB, Jesus' disciples asked Him about a man blind from birth, "Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?" Jesus answered, "Neither did this man sin, nor his parents; but, that the works of God might be revealed in him."
Thirdly, sickness can be a trial or test of faith. In such cases, God allows sickness for a greater purpose, as seen in the life of the apostle Paul. In 2 Corinthians 12:7-9 WEB, Paul writes, "By reason of the exceeding greatness of the revelations, that I should not be exalted excessively, there was given to me a thorn in the flesh, a messenger of Satan to buffet me, that I should not be exalted excessively. Concerning this thing, I begged the Lord three times that it might depart from me. He has said to me, 'My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.'"
Lastly, sickness can indeed be a direct attack from the enemy. In such cases, spiritual warfare and deliverance may be necessary. As Jesus demonstrated, some conditions require prayer and fasting to overcome (Matthew 17:21 WEB).
Let us pray together for any sickness we are experiencing or others we know experiencing sickness:
"Heavenly Father, we come before You in Jesus' name, seeking Your healing touch. We ask for Your divine intervention in all of our lives, and the lives of all we know suffering from sickness. If the enemy is at work, we rebuke his attacks and claim Your promises of healing. If sickness is a test of faith, we ask for Your grace to endure and overcome. If it's a consequence of sin, we repent and seek Your forgiveness and restoration. Thank you Jesus for coming to heal us. We acknowledge that healing is ultimately in Your hands and that You desire for us to be whole in body, soul, and spirit. Give us the wisdom to understand the root of the sickness and the faith to believe in Your healing power. We have access to you by the name of Jesus and it is only by the name of Jesus that we can be saved. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen."
In all circumstances, let us trust in God's goodness and sovereignty, knowing that He works all things together for the good of those who love Him and are called according to His purpose (Romans 8:28 WEB).