June 22
He heals
For indeed he was sick almost unto death; but God had mercy on him… Philippians 2:27 (NKJV)
Have you ever been sick and questioned whether or not God cared about you? Here in the Book of Philippians, the Apostle Paul makes reference to something that goes a long way in answering that question for us.
In context, Paul is writing regarding a fellow follower and co-laborer in Christ named Epaphroditus. Somehow, Epaphroditus had gotten seriously sick, so much so that his very life was in jeopardy. However, Paul shares that the Lord intervened on his behalf. As Paul puts it, “But God had mercy on him.” And Epaphroditus recovered as a result!
Interestingly, we don’t have specific details about how Epaphroditus got well. We don’t know if this involved an instantaneous and supernatural healing, or if it was a more natural course of recovery. What we do know is this: Paul saw the healing as a result of God’s mercy. This shows us that the Lord cared enough about Epaphroditus’ condition to get involved, even though we don’t know exactly how He did that.
“That’s nice that God cared so much about Epaphroditus, but what about me?”
Here’s what you need to understand: The Lord loves and cares about you just as much as Epaphroditus or anyone else in the Bible. He cares enough to intervene and extend His mercy in your direction, when you’re struggling—whether it’s with sickness or something else.
God’s mercy may take the shape of something that looks supernatural and out of the ordinary. Or it may take on a more natural form where divine involvement isn’t as obvious. Either way, we need to recognize what’s behind our healing…the matchless mercy of God.
The next time you question whether or not God cares about your physical condition, remember the “But God” that’s referenced here. It’s a reminder that He does care and that His mercy moves Him to intervene.
Think About It…
What does this passage reveal to me about God?
What does this passage reveal to me about myself?
Based on this, what changes do I need to make?
What is my prayer for today?
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