GIFTS OF HEALINGS
For to one is given the word of wisdom through the Spirit, to another the word of knowledge through the same Spirit, to another faith by the same Spirit, to another gifts of healings by the same Spirit.
Paul tells us about several gifts of the Holy Spirit, including the gift of healing. Paul did not want the church in Corinth to be uninformed, like most people, about how the Holy Spirit can work through us:
“for to one is given the word of wisdom through the Spirit, to another the word of knowledge through the same Spirit, to another faith by the same Spirit, to another gifts of healings by the same Spirit,” (1 Corinthians 12:8-9)
The gift of healing is different than the cure that we experience through going to the doctor. The gift of healing happens when the Holy Spirit operates through prayer and heals us from infirmity or a disease supernaturally.
We see this in the Gospels and in the book of Acts, when Jesus heals people through the disciples prayer, anointing with oil, and their words.
Peter and John told a lame beggar outside the temple to get up and walk, and the man did.
“Now Peter and John went up together to the temple at the hour of prayer, the ninth hour. And a certain man lame from his mother’s womb was carried, whom they laid daily at the gate of the temple which is called Beautiful, to ask alms from those who entered the temple; who, seeing Peter and John about to go into the temple, asked for alms. And fixing his eyes on him, with John, Peter said, “Look at us.” So he gave them his attention, expecting to receive something from them. Then Peter said, “Silver and gold I do not have, but what I do have I give you: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, rise up and walk.” And he took him by the right hand and lifted him up, and immediately his feet and ankle bones received strength. So he, leaping up, stood and walked and entered the temple with them—walking, leaping, and praising God. And all the people saw him walking and praising God. Then they knew that it was he who sat begging alms at the Beautiful Gate of the temple; and they were filled with wonder and amazement at what had happened to him.” (Acts 3:1-10)
Philip preached the Gospel in Samaria, and many people who were paralyzed or lame were healed.
“Therefore those who were scattered went everywhere preaching the word. Then Philip went down to the city of Samaria and preached Christ to them. And the multitudes with one accord heeded the things spoken by Philip, hearing and seeing the miracles which he did. For unclean spirits, crying with a loud voice, came out of many who were possessed; and many who were paralyzed and lame were healed. And there was great joy in that city.” (Acts 8:4-8)
Peter told a paralyzed man named Aeneas that Jesus the Christ heals you and to get out of bed and walk, and he did.
“Now it came to pass, as Peter went through all parts of the country, that he also came down to the saints who dwelt in Lydda. There he found a certain man named Aeneas, who had been bedridden eight years and was paralyzed. And Peter said to him, “Aeneas, Jesus the Christ heals you. Arise and make your bed.” Then he arose immediately. So all who dwelt at Lydda and Sharon saw him and turned to the Lord.” (Acts 9:32-35)
Peter also prayed for a woman named Dorcas, and she came back to life.
“At Joppa there was a certain disciple named Tabitha, which is translated Dorcas. This woman was full of good works and charitable deeds which she did. But it happened in those days that she became sick and died. When they had washed her, they laid her in an upper room. And since Lydda was near Joppa, and the disciples had heard that Peter was there, they sent two men to him, imploring him not to delay in coming to them. Then Peter arose and went with them. When he had come, they brought him to the upper room. And all the widows stood by him weeping, showing the tunics and garments which Dorcas had made while she was with them. But Peter put them all out, and knelt down and prayed. And turning to the body he said, “Tabitha, arise.” And she opened her eyes, and when she saw Peter she sat up. Then he gave her his hand and lifted her up; and when he had called the saints and widows, he presented her alive. And it became known throughout all Joppa, and many believed on the Lord. So it was that he stayed many days in Joppa with Simon, a tanner.” (Acts 9:36-43)
God brings healing miraculously. Whether healing comes through prayer, as a result of medical intervention, or through our body’s natural restorative processes, it is still from God for His glory and our good.
The same Holy Spirit that worked through Peter, John, Paul, and all of the disciples lives now in us.
If God chose to heal people supernaturally back in the Bible times, why could not God do the same today in the middle of a pandemic?
Heavenly Father, all of life comes from You. You have shown us in Your Word how Your Holy Spirit works through Your children. I give my life to You for any way You can use me to help others. As Your Word teaches us, I will listen and be obedient. I know in showing Your love and compassion, I will help others as You live in me. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
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