The Man Healed of a Withered Hand | Miracles of Jesus Christ

It is another Monday, time for another miracle of Jesus Christ. This time is a little different. The man whom Jesus healed was neither seeking Jesus for the healing, nor brought to Jesus by a friend or family member. He is simply in the synagogue listening to Jesus teach. Matthew, Mark, and Luke all give an account of this miraculous healing that began as a set up for the Pharisees to accuse Jesus of doing something wrong.

The man's right hand was disabled in some form and by Luke telling us it was the man's right hand, that could lead us to believe it may have caused the man to not work. We know many people came to listen to Jesus from all walks of life. This man knew he would be stared at because of his infirmity but he went anyway. The scribes and Pharisees studied the law of God but to become stumbling blocks to the people rather than stepping stones. Jesus was always different. His ministry focus was the hearts of the people, restoring them back to right standing with God. Let's read together.

Matthew 12:9-10 And when He was departed thence, He went into their synagogue: And, behold, there was a man which had his hand withered. And they asked Him, saying, Is it lawful to heal on the sabbath days? that they might accuse Him.

Mark 3:1-2 And He entered again into the synagogue; and there was a man there which had a withered hand. And they watched Him, whether He would heal him on the sabbath day; that they might accuse Him.

Luke 6:6-7 And it came to pass also on another sabbath, that He entered into the synagogue and taught: and there was a man whose right hand was withered. And the scribes and Pharisees watched Him, whether He would heal on the sabbath day; that they might find an accusation against Him.

It is ridiculous for these religious leaders to stalk Jesus and scrutinize every word He spoke and every action He took. They were so jealous that people would follow Jesus instead of idolize them and they wanted to get rid of Jesus so they could be on a pedestal again, albeit a self-imposed pedestal. What was Jesus' response?

Matthew 12:11-13 And He said unto them, What man shall there be among you, that shall have one sheep, and if it fall into a pit on the sabbath day, will he not lay hold on it, and lift it out? How much then is a man better than a sheep? Wherefore it is lawful to do well on the sabbath days. Then saith He to the man, Stretch forth thine hand. And he stretched it forth; and it was restored whole, like as the other.

Mark 3:3-5 And He saith unto the man which had the withered hand, Stand forth. And He saith unto them, Is it lawful to do good on the sabbath days, or to do evil? to save life, or to kill? but they held their peace, and when He had looked round about on them with anger, being grieved for the hardness of their hearts, He saith unto the man, Stretch forth thine hand. And he stretched it out: and his hand was restored whole as the other.

Luke 6:8-10 But He knew their thoughts, and said to the man which had the withered hand, Rise up, and stand forth in the midst. And he arose and stood forth. Then said Jesus unto them, I will ask you one thing; Is it lawful on the sabbath days to do good, or to do evil? to save life, or destroy it? And looking round about upon them all, He said unto the man, Stretch forth thy hand. And he did so: and his hand was restored whole as the other.

Jesus' response was one of compassion for the man, and yet in a way He was being compassionate to all in the room because He explained that healing a person on the sabbath day is a good thing! He asks those in authority if it is better to do good or evil, to save lives or to kill. He is giving them the key to everything He had been doing. These miracles were not to get gasps from the crowd and bigger followings. It was to prove that humanity was valuable to Jesus and He would do everything He could to improve the lives of those He came in contact with. Jesus could not see the man with the withered hand and not heal him when the religious leaders wanted it to be about their own agendas and time tables. Jesus is God and He was within the realm of time while on the earth but as God He is an eternal being and our clocks on earth do not dictate when God will move for those in need.

Matthew 12:14-21 Then the Pharisees went out, and held a council against Him, how they might destroy Him. But when Jesus knew it, He withdrew Himself from thence: and great multitudes followed Him, and He healed them all; And charged them that they should not make Him known: That it might be fulfilled which was spoken by Esaias the prophet, saying, Behold My servant, whom I have chosen; My Beloved, in whom My soul is well pleased: I will put My Spirit upon Him, and He shall shew judgment to the Gentiles. He shall not strive, nor cry; neither shall any man hear His voice in the streets. A bruised reed shall He not break, and smoking flax shall He not quench, till He send forth judgment unto victory. And in His name shall the Gentiles trust.

Mark 3:6-12 And the Pharisees went forth, and straightway took counsel with the Herodians against Him, how they might destroy Him. But Jesus withdrew Himself with His disciples to the sea: and a great multitude from Galilee followed Him, and from Judaea, And from Jerusalem, and from Idumaea, and from beyond Jordan; and they about Tyre and Sidon, a great multitude, when they had heard what great things He did, came unto Him. And He spake to His disciples, that a small ship should wait on Him because of the multitude, lest they should throng Him. For He had healed many; insomuch that they pressed upon Him for to touch Him, as many as had plagues. And unclean spirits, when they saw Him, fell down before Him, and cried, saying, Thou art the Son of God. And He straitly charged them that they should not make Him known.

Luke 6:11-12 And they were filled with madness; and communed one with another what they might do to Jesus. And it came to pass in those days, that He went out into a mountain to pray, and continued all night in prayer to God.

We know what Jesus' response was at the prodding of the Pharisees. But what was their response when Jesus healed the man with the withered hand? They immediately saw red! They became filled with rage and wanted to kill Jesus because He healed a man! Just because it was the sabbath, did not mean God could not work! We must not put God in a box and limit Him with our doubt and unbelief. So often we can discount God moving on our behalf or answering our prayers because we think it is not important enough to bother God with. That is just a tactic of the enemy to discourage you to stop asking, seeking, and knocking. Friends, we must not get caught up in religion and man-made traditions.

The crowds grew larger and they came from all over the region. Everyone wanted to be healed, delivered, and set free. Everyone wanted freedom. Many desired to see the miracles or partake in them. They were in awe but we have to remember not everyone who followed after Jesus was doing so because they wanted to be with Him. Some of the crowd wanted to be entertained, not changed. They wanted to see something spectacular but they were not interested in seeking the Bread of Life right before their very eyes.

The man with the withered hand was restored to complete health. His right hand looked and acted just like his left hand. Jesus changed that man's life. He did good. He saved his life. The Pharisees were jealous and angry and foolish. They did evil and sought to kill Jesus and destroy His ministry. What does that sound like?

John 10:10 The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.

Isn't this so obvious as we study the life of Jesus and read about these miracles? He was helping, healing, saving, restoring, and renewing everyone who desired it of Him. The religious leaders wanted to kill and destroy Jesus and everything He stood for. Instead of embracing Him and learning more about why He was here and what He was doing, they wanted to annihilate Him so they could return to their status quo. Once we have been with Jesus, there is no going back. There is no life as we used to know it after an encounter with the Son of God. These men were threatened and jealous and in their cruelty they sought to snuff out the life of the very source of it!

Friends do not wait to put your hope in Jesus. If you have been a doubter, skeptical, unsure, and maybe even put down other people who serve God, you can repent and Jesus will forgive you and save you when you call upon His name. He wants to welcome you into the family of God. He does not desire to see the wicked die in their sins. It was for our redemption that He came to the world, to save us.

Ezekiel 33:11 Say unto them, As I live, saith the Lord GOD, I have no pleasure in the death of the wicked; but that the wicked turn from his way and live: turn ye, turn ye from your evil ways; for why will ye die, O house of Israel?

If you are a child of the Most High God, rejoice that your name is written in the Lamb's Book of Life. Ask yourself what you are doing to further the Kingdom of God. Friends, the hour is short. We are in the final days of the final days. There is not much more time to work. We cannot get caught up in the cares of this life and in the debates and squabbles the world wants to embark on. We have to win souls and be wise. Tell your family and friends about Jesus and His great love. You will never regret it and in doing so you will be showing love and compassion like Jesus. You will be doing good and saving lives.

I hope that something I shared today has been strength for your journey and light for your way. God bless you!

~Bridgett Owens

Curing a Man Who Could Not Speak | Miracles of Jesus Christ

The miracle we are going to study today is found only in Matthew's gospel. This is a short passage of only seven verses rounding out chapter nine. Let's read it together.

Matthew 9:32-38 As they went out, behold, they brought to Him a dumb man possessed with a devil. And when the devil was cast out, the dumb spake: and the multitudes marvelled, saying, It was never so seen in Israel. But the Pharisees said, He casteth out devils through the prince of the devils. And Jesus went about all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the Gospel of the Kingdom, and healing every sickness and every disease among the people. But when He saw the multitudes, He was moved with compassion on them, because they fainted, and were scattered abroad, as sheep having no shepherd. Then saith He unto His disciples, The harvest truly is plenteous, but the labourers are few; Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that He will send forth labourers into His harvest.

First of all there is so much to pull from this passage. The miracle is that a mute man was brought to Jesus. He was possessed by a demon and the demon caused the man to be unable to speak. We know that because it says when the devil was cast out the man was able to talk. This created a sense of awe and wonder in the people witnessing it. The religious leaders of the day could not explain it and so they decided to slander Jesus and accuse Him of using the power of the devil to cast out the devil. That makes no sense because why would the devil want the man to be free and to speak? Of course we know that Jesus is the Son of God and all power was given to Him and this is how the miracle transpired.

It goes on to say that Jesus went into the cities and villages healing all types of sickness and disease. He was still doing miracles. But, the last two verses show us what the heart of Jesus really looks like. He was never sent to the world to perform miracles and that be the end of it. Those were a big part of His ministry but the real reason He came was to ransom us to Himself and we see this posture of His heart having compassion on all those in need of a Savior.

The Bible says the people were weary. That is what it means in verse 36 when it says they fainted. These were oppressed people and they desperately needed a Savior. Jesus sees how many there are and He understands now is harvest time. There are not enough workers right now trying to bring in the harvest. So many today are distracted by the cares of this life, worldly fame and riches, and things that take us further away from the Father. Friends we must get back to the basics. What are we doing to bring in the lost?

Jesus told His disciples to pray that God would send workers into His harvest. We must pray the same thing. The lateness of the hour is upon us and there is not much time left to work for the Lord. We have to finish the work God called us to do so that we can finish our race strong! There are people who need to hear from you. They need hope and encouragement. They need to hear the words of Jesus and they need to know there is hope and He is the Savior they need.

Let's rejoice in the miracles that God is still doing today, but let's not lose sight that there is a whole world dying and going to hell if we don't throw them a lifeline and that lifeline is Jesus Christ.

I hope something I have shared today has been strength for your journey and light for your way. God bless you!

~Bridgett Owens

Double Miracle | Miracles of Jesus Christ

Up until now we have seen the miracles of Jesus in three of the four Gospels. Today we will read about a double miracle that is only found in the book of Matthew. This account follows on the heels of the two miracles we read about last week: the 12 year old girl raised from the dead and the woman with the issue of blood healed after 12 years of suffering. Let's read the text first.

Matthew 9:27-31 And when Jesus departed thence, two blind men followed Him, crying, and saying, Thou son of David, have mercy on us. And when He was come into the house, the blind men came to Him: and Jesus saith unto them, Believe ye that I am able to do this? They said unto Him, Yea, Lord. Then touched He their eyes, saying, According to your faith be it unto you. And their eyes were opened; and Jesus straitly charged them, saying, See that no man know it. But they, when they were departed, spread abroad His fame in all that country.

After word spread about Jesus healing the woman who had been hemorrhaging for more than a decade and raising Jairus' daughter from the dead, people started seeking Jesus for their own miracles. Much like today, the world was in desperate need for a Savior, a Healer, and a Teacher. Two blind men were in need of one such miracle. The Bible says they beg Jesus to have mercy on them. Jesus went into a house and they followed Him. They wanted to see! Jesus point-blank asked them if they believed He was able to do this. Why was their faith in Him so important?

Imagine for a moment there is a pipe in the ground. The pipe is a conduit for water in our example. Now imagine there is a blockage of some sort in the pipe. The water is not able to flow freely through the pipe. The water cannot come out of the pipe, not because there is no water, but the water is not free to flow. Now think of our lives as that pipe. The blockage to our own miracles is often doubt, or unbelief. We simply do not trust God. The water is the power of God in this example. The problem is not that God does not have the power to perform miracles, but rather, His power does not flow through us when we do not believe.

Hebrews 11:1 Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.

Jesus wants these blind men to trust Him. He asks them specifically if they believe that He is able to restore their sight. These men said yes! What are you wanting God to do in your life? Do you trust Him to do it? If you want things like power, money, fame, notoriety, etc. you probably will not receive those things. God desires to be in fellowship with you. Often those things will lead to pride and selfishness instead of drawing you closer to Him. This is why we must be careful to check our motives when we are asking God for things.

1 John 5:14-15 And this is the confidence we have in Him, that, if we ask anything according to His will, He heareth us: And if we know that He hear us, whatsoever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we desired of Him.

These men had confidence that Jesus was able to heal them and I believe they were expecting a miracle. Jesus did that for them. Their faith caused the power of God to flow freely in their lives. Others did not get the same flow of healing virtue because of doubt. We read about that just a few chapters later, and Mark's account agrees.

Matthew 13:57-58 And they were offended in Him. But Jesus said unto them, A prophet is not without honour, save in his own country, and in his own house. And He did not many mighty works there because of their unbelief.

Mark 6:4-6 But Jesus, said unto them, A prophet is not without honour, but in his own country, and among his own kin, and in his own house. And He could there do no mighty work, save that He laid His hands upon a few sick folk, and healed them. And He marvelled because of their unbelief. And He went round about the villages, teaching.

This text tells us that Jesus was amazed at their lack of faith! We must believe God is able to help us and if we do not have faith we cannot expect to receive anything from God. James 1:6-7 reads, But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. For he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea driven with the wind and tossed. For let not that man think that he shall receive any thing of the Lord.

Once the blind men were healed Jesus sternly warned them not to tell anyone what happened. But as soon as they left they told everyone in the land what Jesus had done for them. Of course they were elated to have the gift of sight. They wanted others to rejoice in what the Lord had done for them. Why would Jesus not want them to tell anyone?

Friends I believe that Jesus did not want the focus to be on the miracles then or even now. Jesus died to save us from our sins. His precious blood was the currency to pay for our sin. The Bible says in Romans 6:23 For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.

Luke 22:14-20 And when the hour was come, He sat down, and the twelve apostles with Him. And He said unto them, With desire I have desired to eat this passover with you before I suffer: For I say unto you, I will not any more eat thereof, until it be fulfilled in the Kingdom of God. And He took the cup, and gave thanks, and said, Take this, and divide it among yourselves: For I say unto you, I will not drink of the fruit of the vine, until the Kingdom of God shall come. And He took bread, and gave thanks, and brake it, and gave unto them, saying, This is My body which is given for you: this do in remembrance of Me. Likewise also the cup after supper, saying, This cup is the new testament in My blood, which is shed for you.

Jesus tells the twelve that He earnestly desired to eat this special meal with them. He is telling them then and us now that the most important thing to remember is not the miracles, the loaves and the fishes, and all the supernatural things He did to help us have better lives. The most important thing to remember is the miracle of the cross! The redemption of His body and blood to save us from eternal separation from Him. 1 Corinthians 10:16 The cup of blessing which we bless, is it not the communion of the blood of Christ? The bread which we break, is it not the communion of the body of Christ? Let's ask God for the things we need but do not seek the miracles, seek Jesus!

I have enjoyed studying the miracles of Jesus Christ with you all. I hope to continue these blog posts on Mondays beginning in November. We will continue to study them throughout the rest of this year. We are to read about these miracles and be encouraged and build our faith, but we must not forget that Jesus never came to perform miracles, but rather we know He came to save us.

John 3:16-17 For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life. For God sent not His Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through Him might be saved.

I hope you have accepted Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior and are walking with Him. If not, please call upon the name of Jesus Christ and be saved today. He loves you so much that He took your punishment and offers you a free gift of eternal life with Him.

If you are saved and seeking a miracle, do not give up! God loves you and wants to help you and heal you. That might be instantaneous or it might be a journey, but the outcome is the same: He wants to draw you closer to Himself. Allow Him to transform your life!

I hope something I shared today has been strength for your journey and light for your way. God bless you!

~Bridgett Owens

Healing the Sick at Evening | Miracle of Jesus Christ

The Bible gives us many examples of Jesus healing people, delivering people, and setting the captives free. We also know that many more miracles were done by Jesus but not ever recorded. Think back to after the resurrection when Jesus revealed Himself to Thomas, and said, "Thomas, because thou hast seen Me, thou hast believed: blessed are they that have not seen, and yet have believed." (John 20:29) John writes in verses 30 and 31 of that same chapter, "And many other signs truly did Jesus in the presence of His disciples, which are not written in this book: But these are written, that ye might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing ye might have life through His name." So the point in reading these miraculous accounts of what Christ did is to build our faith and that faith will cause us to accept Jesus as Son of God and Messiah, so then we will receive everlasting life. We must continue to share these stories because everyone needs to know the truth about who Jesus is and what He actually did while He was on the earth.

The first account of this miracle is in Matthew 8:16-17. It reads:

When the even was come, they brought unto Him many that were possessed with devils: and He cast out the spirits with His word, and healed all that were sick: That it might be fulfilled which was spoken by Esaias the prophet, saying, Himself took our infirmities, and bare our sicknesses.

Jesus had a reputation that He could do the miraculous and that drew desperate people to Himself. Many were possessed with devils. This is an important statement. This was an issue in that area at the time. We see today in 2024 there are many in this nation, and around the globe who are possessed with devils and they are in need of deliverance that can only come from Jesus. We are told in the Holy script that Jesus cast out the evil spirits with His word. He didn't have to beg them to go, or ask them to leave. Jesus Christ had all power given to Him by His Father and He had authority over unclean spirits and they had to obey Him. Why did Jesus heal the sick and afflicted? We are told it was to fulfill the prophecy Isaiah gave.

Isaiah 53:3-5 He is despised and rejected of men; a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief: and we hid as it were our face from Him; He was despised, and we esteemed Him not. Surely He hath born our griefs, and carried our sorrows: yet we did esteem Him stricken, smitten of God, and afflicted. But He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon Him; and with His stripes we are healed.

Jesus was most certainly despised and rejected of men. We see how he sorrowfully opened His arms wide to Jerusalem and with a heavy heart said, "O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, thou that killest the prophets, and stonest them which are sent unto thee, how often would I have gathered thy children together, even as a hen doth gather her chickens under her wings, and ye would not!" (Matthew 23:37) Yet He still healed the sick and tormented. He still carried our sins and our penalty and paid the price to redeem us all, including those who to this day will reject Him.

Mark gives an account of these miracles as well in chapter one, in verses 32 through 34.

And at even, when the sun did set, they brought unto Him all that were diseased, and them that were possessed with devils. And all the city was gathered together at the door. And he healed many that were sick of divers diseases, and cast out many devils; and suffered not the devils to speak, because they knew Him.

Mark gives a little more information on what is happening this particular evening. An onslaught of people have come to be healed and delivered by Jesus. They are gathered at the door. The Bible tells us Jesus is the door that we must go through to get to God. "Then said Jesus unto them again, Verily, verily, I say unto you, I am the door of the sheep. All that ever came before Me are thieves and robbers: but the sheep did not hear them. I am the door: by Me if any man enter in, He shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture." John 10:7-9

Jesus healed many that came and delivered those possessed with devils. Mark goes on to say that Jesus did not permit the demons to speak because they knew Him. These evil spirits knew Jesus is the Christ and they would have said so if they were allowed to speak. Jesus was very sensitive to the timing in which His Heavenly Father did all things and this was not the time, so they were not allowed to speak.

Luke's Gospel gives account of this story in chapter 4 verses 40 and 41.

Now when the sun was setting, all they that had any sick with divers diseases brought them unto Him; and He laid His hands on every one of them, and healed them. And devils also came out of many, crying out, and saying, Thou art Christ the Son of God. And He rebuking them suffered them not to speak: for they knew that He was Christ.

I like reading Luke's account because of the details he included. He said there were divers diseases, like we read in Mark's Gospel. Luke says Jesus laid His hand on every single one of them and healed them. There was no blanket prayer or a group session. Jesus went to each individual and healed them all.

The devils also came out proclaiming Jesus is the Son of God, the Christ. Jesus had to rebuke them and not allow them to speak because He knew it was not time for that. Jesus knew His life was on a timeline designed by His Father and we see over and over again how Jesus continues to lay down His own will and yields to His Father.

Jesus was familiar with suffering and sorrow. We know this if we study His life. He felt pain and grief. He knew what it felt like to be with someone day and night for three and half years and they still would betray Him with a kiss in the garden of Gethsemane. Jesus knows what we are going through and Peter reminds us that Jesus set the tone for how we should respond when we are hurt, strongly criticized, and wounded. Let's read that final passage in closing of today's study.

1 Peter 2:21-25 For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow His steps: Who did no sin, neither was guile found in His mouth: Who, when He was reviled, reviled not again; when He suffered, He threatened not: but committed Himself to Him that judgeth righteously: Who His own Self bare our sins in His body on the tree, that we, being dead to sins, should live unto righteousness: by Whose stripes ye are healed. For ye were as sheep going astray; but are now returned unto the Shepherd and Bishop of your souls.

Friends, Jesus still heals, delivers, and saves. Call upon Him now and He will meet your needs. Just ask Him to do it and He will. He has given us proof today in His Word that it is His desire for us to be whole. Let's keep our confidence in the One who can do what no one can: Jesus our miracle working Savior!

I hope something shared today has been strength for your journey and light for your way.

God bless you,
Bridgett Owens

Healing Peter's Mother-In-Law | Miracle of Jesus Christ

Most of the people Jesus healed were not mentioned by name. I think it could be in part so that we can relate to these miraculous stories. Much like when one goes to purchase a home, the house will be staged and most of the homeowner's personality is missing so others can easily see themselves living there. Today we are talking about a miracle of Jesus Christ as He heals a woman He is very familiar with. We do not know her name but we do know that she is the mother of Peter's wife. We pick up the story in Matthew, Mark and Luke's gospels.

Matthew's Account:

Matthew 8:14-15 And when Jesus was come into Peter's house, He saw his wife's mother laid, and sick of a fever. And He touched her hand, and the fever left her: and she arose, and ministered unto them.

Mark's Account:

Mark 1:29-31 And forthwith, when they were come out of the synagogue, they entered into the house of Simon and Andrew, with James and John. But Simon's wife's mother lay sick of a fever, and anon they tell Him of her. And He came and took her by the hand, and lifted her up; and immediately the fever left her, and she ministered unto them.

Luke's Account:

Luke 4:38-39 And He arose out of the synagogue, and entered into Simon's house. And Simon's wife's mother was taken with a great fever; and they besought Him for her. And He stood over her, and rebuked the fever; and it left her: and immediately she arose and ministered unto them.

Jesus was God in the flesh. Matthew shows us the power of God in this exchange. Jesus had authority over the fever and with one touch of the Master's hand she received healing. She was able to get up and serve others. This shows us there was no weakness or lingering sickness. She was not only afebrile but she was healed! In Mark's account we see the fever immediately left her. There was no waiting on the fever to break or a medication to work. The dominion Jesus has over all sickness and disease is demonstrated in this miraculous healing. And finally Luke tells us the fever was very great. This was no low-grade fever and as a doctor it was important for Luke to detail this. Luke says Jesus stood over her. Again this shows the position of authority over the illness. Jesus rebuked the fever and it left her. Again we see the immediate effect that this woman was then able to minister to her guests in her home.

We are not given details about how long she had been sick, what caused the fever, or anything further. What we know is that this woman was a server. She desired to minister to those in her home. The mother has a pivotal role in the Jewish family. She attends to needs and makes sure everyone is taken care of. She was no longer able to do any of that when she was laying sick with a high fever. Jesus shows us that He cares about everyone, including women, including mothers, and including families.

You may be sick and have suffered for a long time. Maybe you do not know what is causing your illness and maybe you do, but today we have assurance that Jesus cares about us. He does not want us to remain sick. He does not want our energy drained and unable to minister to those around us. Will you ask Jesus to heal you? He will do it! Ask a friend or family member to anoint your head with oil and lay their hands on you and pray in faith and God will raise you up. James 5:14-16 says, Is any sick among you? let him call for the elders of the church; and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in name of the Lord: and the prayer of faith shall save the sick, and the Lord shall raise him up; and if he have committed sins, they shall be forgiven him. Confess your faults one to another, and pray for one another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.

If you need healing, please leave a comment below or feel free to email me at bridgettowens78@gmail.com and I will pray for you. I know that Jesus will heal you. He is a wonderful Savior and He cares for you.

I hope today's blog post has been strength for your journey and light for your way. God bless you!

Bridgett Owens

Healing Paralysis | Miracle of Jesus Christ

I have had the privilege to work for many different organizations through the years. It has been my experience that not every employer is kind and caring toward their employees. While some were fair, not every boss had compassion for the welfare of their workers. When we think of military leaders, compassionate and generous may not be the top two adjectives that come to mind. Yet, in today's reading we will see how Jesus was impressed with a Gentile Roman Centurion's faith, more than anyone else in Israel.

Matthew and Luke are the two disciples who chose to record this miracle. You can read along in Matthew 8:5-13 and Luke 7:1-10. The miracle Jesus performs is for the servant of a Roman soldier. We do not ever know the servant's name, if he was a Jew or Gentile, or if he even knew Jesus at all. We learn a great deal about the unnamed Centurion, though, and it is his great faith that moves Jesus to grant this man's request.

Centurions were not just soldiers. These were leaders over 100 or some accounts say several hundred. This man of war knew how to submit to authority and how to exercise his authority over others. He understood the power of a command. Beyond his military experience, we read in Luke that this man was also generous. He loved his country and funded the building of a synagogue for the Jews to worship. 

MATTHEW 8:5-6 And when Jesus was entered into Capernaum, there came unto Him a centurion, beseeching Him, And saying, Lord, my servant lieth at home sick of the palsy, grievously tormented.

LUKE 7:1-5 Now when He had ended all His sayings in the audience of the people, He entered into Capernaum. And a certain centurion's servant, who was dear unto him, was sick, and ready to die. And when he heard of Jesus, he sent unto Him the elders of the Jews, beseeching Him that He would come and heal his servant. And when they came to Jesus, they besought Him instantly, saying, That he was worthy for whom He should do this: For he loveth our nation, and he hath built us a synagogue.

The centurion sent for Jesus but he did not tell the men to say nice things about him. They spoke of this man's character and integrity because of who this man was publicly and privately. He was deeply concerned about his servant and the Bible tells us that the servant was dear to him. He is not worried about losing a good worker or how this will impact his bottom dollar. He genuinely wants his cherished servant to be well.

Jesus must have been asked to a lot of people's homes to perform miracles and to heal diseases. Yet, Jesus did not hesitate to go this man's home. Just like Jesus told the leper who asked to be healed, Jesus is saying to this centurion, "I want to. I will."

MATTHEW 8:7 And Jesus saith unto him, I will come and heal him.

LUKE 7:6a Then Jesus went with them.

What would you do if you found out Jesus was coming to your house? Would you be glad? Would you panic? The Roman soldier humbled himself to request this healing but he did not want to trouble Jesus. He had deep respect for Jesus. But he did not want Jesus to come to his home. He wants Jesus to heal the servant but his faith is so strong that he tells Jesus to just command the miracle to be and he believed that it would be just as Jesus said. He knew the power of Jesus' words could bridge the distance and his servant would be healed. 

MATTHEW 8:8-9 The centurion answered and said, Lord, I am not worthy that Thou shouldest come under my roof: but speak the word only, and my servant shall be healed. For I am a man under authority, having soldiers under me: and I say to this man, Go, and he goeth; and to another, Come, and he cometh; and to my servant, Do this, and he doeth it.

LUKE 7:6b-8 And when he was now not far from the house, the centurion sent friends to Him, saying unto Him, Lord, trouble not Thyself: for I am not worthy that Thou shouldest enter under my roof: Wherefore neither thought I myself worthy to come unto Thee: but say in a word, and my servant shall be healed. For I also am a man set under authority, having under me soldiers, and I say unto one, Go, and he goeth; and to another Come, and he cometh; and to my servant, Do this, and he doeth it.

Remember the centurion did not speak to Jesus face to face. He did not feel worthy to even be in His presence. He just wanted the Lord to command the illness to leave his servant and he had no doubt that it would be done. Scripture tells us what Jesus thought about that. A Gentile career military officer had so much faith in Jesus to heal his servant that Jesus said this man had more faith than anyone else in all of Israel!

How is our faith? What are we asking God for? Do we believe in the authority Jesus has over cancer, chronic pain, financial distress, chaos with our children, anxiety and depression? Can Jesus do what we are asking of Him? The centurion did not doubt for one moment what Jesus could do. He was bold enough to ask and courageous enough to believe. We must ask ourselves if we are that bold and courageous.

MATTHEW 8:10-13 When Jesus heard it, He marvelled, and said to them that followed, Verily I say unto you, I have not found so great faith, no, not in Israel. And I say unto you, That many shall come from the east and the west, and shall sit down with Abraham, and Isaac, and Jacob, in the Kingdom of heaven. But the children of the Kingdom shall be cast out into outer darkness: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth. And Jesus said unto the centurion, Go thy way; and as thou hast believed, so shall it be done unto thee. And his servant was healed in the selfsame hour.

LUKE 7:9-10 When Jesus heard these things, He marvelled at him, and turned Him about, and said unto the people that followed Him, I say unto you, I have not found so great faith, no, not in Israel. And they that were sent, returning to the house, found the servant whole that had been sick.

Why did Jesus say all that about Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob? What could that have to do with healing the centurion's servant? The point Jesus is making is that not all the Israelites would be in heaven. This man was not a Jew and yet he would be sitting at the table with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob in the Kingdom of heaven. The children of the Kingdom who are cast into outer darkness refer to the lost sheep who refuse to listen to the Good Shepherd. The Gentile has a place in God's Kingdom because he had great faith in Jesus. We all have the opportunity to make heaven our Home. Have you believed on Jesus? Do you recognize that He is the Son of God, the Holy One? If you do, then you are saved. If you do not believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Christ, the Savior of the world, then you need to put your trust in Him today. Let today be your day of salvation.

This is a wonderful miracle that impacted the centurion and his servant and countless others connected to these two men. We know that it is to increase our faith that Jesus can do anything we ask, think, or even imagine. There is more to this story, though. This is an invitation for whosoever will to receive the free gift of eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord. Do you know Him as Lord and Savior? I pray that you do!

I hope that you are encouraged today as you read this miracle of Jesus Christ. Jesus healed the centurion's servant who was paralyzed and near death. What a Savior indeed! May today's blog post be strength for your journey and light for your way. God bless you!

~Bridgett Owens

Jesus wants to. Jesus will. | Cleansing A Leper Miracle

Matthew, Mark, and Luke each share a glimpse into what happened when Jesus changed one man's life forever. Mark gives the most details on the background story. Let's look at it together.

Mark 1:35-39 And in the morning, rising up a great while before day, He went out, and departed into a solitary place, and there prayed. And Simon and they that were with Him followed after Him. And when they had found Him, they said unto Him, All men seek for Thee. And He said unto them, Let us go into the next towns, that I may preach there also: for therefore came I forth. And He preached in their synagogues throughout all Galilee, and cast out devils.

    Matthew confirms Jesus comes down from the mountain where a huge following of people are gathered.

Matthew 8:1 When He was come down from the mountain, great multitudes followed Him.

    Before doing great miracles or ministering to the masses, Jesus got up early in the morning a long time before the sun was coming up. While others slept, Jesus rose early to be alone and pray.

    There are so many amazing things we can do for the Kingdom of God. It is important to share our testimony, offer words of encouragement, and do great things to honor Jesus, but we must first begin our day with Him. How often do we scramble to the kitchen for a quick breakfast as we rush kids off to school and run through the morning routines without first stopping to talk with the Master?

    The disciples went looking for Jesus and when they found Him, they let Him know everyone wants to see Him. They did not ask about His solitary prayer time. Jesus did not ask how many followers there were, sign autographs and take photos with "fans." He is clear on His mission to preach the Gospel. We cannot let followers sway us from keeping our shoulder to the plow. This is not the time to get caught up in the numbers. Instead, let's remember why we are here and allow God to work through us.

    Luke's account begins with one man's story. Let's read it.

Luke 5:12 And it came to pass, when He was in a certain city, behold a man full of leprosy: who seeing Jesus fell on his face, and besought Him, saying, Lord, if Thou wilt, Thou canst make me clean.

    Mark shares how this man is so desperate for Jesus to heal him, he begs Him.

Mark 1:40 And there came a leper to Him, beseeching Him, and kneeling down to Him, and saying unto Him, If Thou wilt, Thou canst make me clean.

    It is repeated in Matthew's account:

Matthew 8:2 And, behold, there came a leper and worshipped Him, saying, Lord, if Thou wilt, Thou canst make me clean.

     We do not know this man's name or how he knew Jesus and the power of His touch, but it is clear in all accounts this man has faith. He tells Jesus, "If You want to, You can heal me." Have there been times you have had such tremendous faith? Do you believe that if Jesus wants to, He can heal you, save you, forgive you, restore you, deliver you, or love you? If you ever wondered if Jesus wants to do those things, we will see what Jesus' response always is to those who have faith in Him.

Luke 5:13 And He put forth His hand, and touched him, saying, I will: be thou clean. And immediately the leprosy departed from him.

Mark 1:41-42 And Jesus, moved with compassion, put forth His hand, and touched him, and saith unto him, I will: be thou clean. And as soon as He had spoken, immediately the leprosy departed from him, and he was cleansed.

Matthew 8:3 And Jesus put forth His hand, and touched him, saying, I will; be thou clean. And immediately his leprosy was cleansed.

  “I will.”

  “I will.”

  “I will.”

  Each account, Jesus tells the man, "I want to heal you," and immediately the leprosy is gone. Jesus is saying the same thing to each one of us today. If we have faith that Jesus has the power to heal, save, forgive, restore, deliver, and love, His response is, “I want to. I will.”

  Jesus gives the man specific instructions on what to do according to the Old Testament law, then He tells the healed man to tell no one else. That may seem strange to us. Wouldn’t Jesus want others to know what the power of God can do? Wouldn’t the man’s family and friends, coworkers, others in his life who knew he was once a leper, wouldn’t they all know something miraculous happened? How could he keep this to Himself?

 Matthew 8:4 And Jesus saith unto him, See thou tell no man; but go thy way, shew thyself to the priest, and offer the gift that Moses commanded, for a testimony unto them.

Mark 1:43-45 And He straitly charged him, and forthwith sent him away; And saith unto him, See thou say nothing to any man: but go thy way, shew thyself to the priest, and offer for thy cleansing those things which Moses commanded, for a testimony unto them. But he went out, and began to publish it much, and to blaze abroad the matter, insomuch that Jesus could no more openly enter into the city, but was without in desert places: and they came to Him from every quarter.

Luke 5:14-16 And He charged him to tell no man: but go, and shew thyself to the priest, and offer for thy cleansing, according as Moses commanded, for a testimony unto them. But so much the more went there a fame abroad of Him: and great multitudes came together to hear, and to be healed by Him of their infirmities. And He withdrew Himself into the wilderness, and prayed.

  Jesus no longer had the freedom to walk into a city and preach the Gospel. Now people sought Him for miracles. Yes, it is wonderful when Jesus performed miracles and helped so many people, but salvation is not in physical healing alone. The most important thing Jesus wanted to share was the free gift of salvation for whosoever will.

Sometimes we get so caught up in wanting to experience something supernatural and miraculous that we forget about the most miraculous thing…salvation. We can pray for others to be healed, delivered, set free from addictions or perhaps get a financial miracle. Those are great things to pray for. How often do we pray for their salvation? How often are we asking our friends and family about their walk with God? How concerned are we about where our loved ones will end up in eternity?

I have had a lot of prayer requests this year from others about specific needs being met and just like Jesus said to the leper, He is saying to us, “I want to. I will.” How about we pray just as much for our lost loved ones and acquaintances because His answer is the same. He wants to. He will.

I pray this blog post has been Strength for your journey & Light for your way. God bless you!

Bridgett Owens

So Many Blessings | Thankful Thursday

Last week I missed my Friday blog post: Fuel for the Weekend. I also missed posting my 5 Minute Friday on my YouTube channel. I had been up late waiting on my husband to get off work around midnight Friday morning. We talked a little bit and then I went to sleep because I had a very early doctor's appointment that I absolutely needed to keep for work. I brought home some breakfast for Javan and Paul and myself and then I laid down to take a nap. I have not been sleeping well lately and my allergies are really bothering me. My sister called me but I did not realize it. When I woke up I saw a text message from her and a missed call. My brother sent me and our other sister a text message telling us that our oldest sister was in an accident with our brother-in-law.

I immediately called her and found that she was in the Emergency Room. They had been hit by another driver who was going too fast in the rainy conditions. They tried to swerve to avoid the person but was hit head on. Their vehicle flipped and struck a tree which came crashing down into their sunroof area. Glass went everywhere including my sister's hair. My brother-in-law suffered no major injuries. My sister has a fracture in her knee. God had his hands on them and the person who hit them was not injured at all. He was driving so fast because he was late for a meeting.

I let my brother and our other sister know what was going on. I called my mom and she was at her friend's house, a wonderful woman of God, and we began to pray. My aunt called and had the prayer chain going in Florida, where she used to live. Other prayer chains began to go around here in Indiana. I believe heaven was bombarded with prayer for them and God was right with them all along in Tennessee. He has been doing one miraculous thing after another for them and I give God all the glory. She goes back to the doctor soon and is expecting them to not find anything wrong with her leg. They said she might need surgery to fix the fracture. But we know God heals and delivers and saves and sets free. We believe He is going to get all the glory, honor, and praise for all that He is doing! It is coming in ripples!!!

Please do continue to pray for my sister and brother-in-law. Their car is totaled and we all understand what a hassle dealing with insurance companies can be. She is in a wheelchair and unable to bear weight on that leg, but we know God is already working it all out.

Today I am so thankful for my sister and brother-in-law to be spared and for the gifts and callings on their life. They love the LORD with all their heart and are never too busy to pray for others in need. I am so thankful for them and for what God is doing in their lives and in the life of their son, my sweet nephew! He is now in the family of God, gave his heart to the Lord and is getting baptized! What a wonderful work He is doing in their lives. I am so thankful.

What are you thankful for today? I am counting my blessings and there are so many other things I do not have the time or space to write about that He is doing in our lives. I am also thankful for my new job and how God has worked out all those details and allowed me to be able to see my son off to his first day of high school. He had a wonderful day and I am so thankful. God is answering so many of our prayers!!

EPHESIANS 3:20-21 Now unto Him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us, Unto Him be glory in the Church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end, Amen.

God bless you!

~Bridgett Owens

God Heals | Thankful Thursday

My son had surgery on Friday. I was unable to get a blog post up and I missed yesterday's post, too, so I went ahead today and shared my Bible study post that should have been shared yesterday. Here are some pictures from Friday. The first picture is Javan on the way to the hospital, and then waiting on surgery, and then going home after surgery. 

Big smiles, but he was a little nervous. He was eager to get it over with, he said.

We were thankful to get to spend a lot of time with Javan before he had surgery.

He said the IV was the part he dreaded the most, hurt the worst, and the thing he was glad to get rid of the most.

Javan was pain free when we left the hospital. I am so thankful everything went well. He felt great all evening and the next day he was able to attend his uncle and aunt's family function with lots of singing and food and yummy desserts.

There were many prayers going up for his surgery and recovery. The Bible says, in James 5:14-15 Is any sick among you? let him call for the elders of the church; and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord: And the prayer of faith shall save the sick, and the Lord shall raise him up; and if he have committed sins, they shall be forgiven him. Javan is blessed with a wonderful youth pastor and his wife who prayed over Javan and encouraged him about the surgery. 

In Exodus 15:26, God said He is the the LORD that heals us. David says in Psalm 30:2 O LORD my God, I cried unto Thee, and Thou hast healed me. I was concerned for Javan. Tears rolled down my face after they wheeled him back to surgery. I was reminded of the scripture, Psalm 56:3 What time I am afraid, I will trust in Thee. It was comforting to know Javan was safe in the hands of Jesus, the Great Physician. God wants us to trust Him. Psalm 148:11 The LORD taketh pleasure in them that fear Him, in those that hope in His mercy.

So this week, I am thankful that Javan continues to heal, has had minimal discomfort, and has had an opportunity to rest often. I am also thankful that I am off work during this time and can take care of him. It has been a blessing. What are you thankful for today?

~Bridgett Owens

Happy St. Patrick's Day | Thankful Thursday

Hey everyone! It is 8:12 p.m. on Thursday, March 17, 2022. I wanted to post this morning but time got away from me and I had to squeeze a lot of work and an appointment for my daughter in to a short amount of time. It all worked out and I was able to finish work at a decent hour, but I am exhausted.

PSALM 23:1-3 (1)The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want. (2)He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: He leadeth me beside the still waters. (3)He restoreth my soul: He leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for His name's sake. 

Some of you may know that I suffer with chronic pain in my colon and after many scans, tests, scopes, medications, etc., I have no answers and much pain and weakness from bleeding. I hope that is not sharing too much. So, suffice it to say that today was an "on again" pain day and God allowed me to power through it and even though at times I was so nauseous I thought I would actually vomit, I did not and so I am very thankful for that.

Today the weather was 75 degrees! It was beautiful, blue skies, fluffy white clouds, a warm ball of sunshine, and some very cool breezes. It was a perfect weather day. I was thanking God all day for the beautiful views and amazing day He gave me. At one point I was wondering around trying to find a client's home and was so thankful that it was such a gorgeous day for all that walking. It was far better than traipsing through snow piles and ice, or pouring down rain.

I was greeted by several text messages on my phone from someone who really enjoyed my video on YouTube. She said it encouraged her and strengthened her. Her words of kindness were so welcomed and it encouraged me to keep doing what God has asked me to do. It is to God be all the glory, honor, and praise. I can do nothing apart from Him and He truly is teaching me as I share here on my blog, on Instagram, or even my YouTube channel. I learn right along with you all and it is an honor to serve God in this way.

I have one more work day this week and I hope to get done at a decent time tomorrow as well. I am saying farewell to that chapter of my life, as short as it was, it was definitely not sweet. I am disappointed in how things were mishandled there but I trust God will restore to me what is rightfully mine and as I walk in obedience to leave that job, I know he has something far better for me. I just do not know what that is yet. Patience!

So, Happy St. Patrick's Day! I hope you have had a wonderful day. I have enjoyed being so close to God. This valley experience is very different than I have ever had in the past. I feel much closer to Him and I feel safer, more secure in this valley, knowing that each day I am climbing up the next mountain and I will have more blessings and joy waiting on the other side of this. I am content. I am at perfect peace. I have my hand in His and I refuse to let Him go. God bless you!

~Bridgett Owens

 

Healing Broken Hearts | Thankful Thursday

 

ISAIAH 63:1-3 The Spirit of the Lord GOD is upon me: because the LORD hath anointed me to preach good tidings unto the meek; He hath sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to them that are bound; To proclaim the acceptable year of the LORD, and the day of vengeance of our God; to comfort all that mourn; To appoint unto them that mourn in Zion, to give unto them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness; that they might be called trees of righteousness, the planting of the LORD, that He might be glorified.

Jesus quoted this passage of scripture in Luke 4:18, "The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me, because He hath anointed Me to preach the gospel to the poor; He hath sent me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised." What a beautiful description of who Jesus is. He was sent to heal the brokenhearted and I can tell you that He is still healing broken hearts today.

I had just come off a fast. I was weak in the flesh but strong in my spirit. I was prepared to give a Word of Knowledge that God had given me for a specific church. I felt as though my chest would burst if I did not get the word out. I was given the word during a time of fasting and consecration to God. But, unfortunately someone misspoke something about me before the service and so I was not allowed to give that message. I was told to wait until later. I cannot tell you how grieved I felt in my soul and how grieved I felt the Holy Spirit had been.

I was confused and hurt because no one asked me if the accusations were true. The person who twisted the information did not do that to hurt me. They did not want to cause strife and division. They apologized and I believe they were sorry it had happened. I forgave them of course, but I was crushed. I did not want to go back to their church. I was so wounded I wanted to just leave. God did not want that for me though. I just kept thinking that my integrity should have made them question what was being said. But God wanted to teach me something in this situation. God said for me not to try to justify myself because He would exonerate me. God loves me and He wants me to keep growing and to keep pushing past obstacles and adversity. I know that He is still healing broken hearts because He did that for me. I was crushed and upset but my dear friend that I cherish reminded me of this:

2 CORINTHIANS 4:7-10 (7)But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power be of God, and not of us. (8)We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; (9)Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed; (10)Always bearing about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our body.

2 CORINTHIANS 4:16-18 (16)For which cause we faint not; but though our outward man perish, yet the inward man is renewed day by day. (17)For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory; (18)While we look not at the things which are seen: for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal.

My friend really encouraged me with these verses. We can be wounded by friends, family, or anyone. (Zechariah 13:6) So what can I do? God gave me a gift. He allowed me to be hurt so He could teach me some things. He is my helper. He is my healer. He is my source of joy. He is my dearest friend. He is always with me. That does not change! Someone may choose to believe the worst about me, but that is between them and God. Like the Bible says in 2 Corinthians, these light afflictions are working for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory.

Sometimes I get so caught up in wanting to please God that when I cannot do what He asked me to do, I feel like God is going to be upset with me. That is a lie from the enemy. The truth is He isn't upset with me. God knows I tried, but it was no use. God reminded me that it is not me they are rejecting, but it is Him. (1 Samuel 8:7)

I was able to pray for those who hurt me and ask God to bless them, encourage them, cause their ministry to grow, and for God's favor on their lives. I still care about them and want God to give them everything He promised them. You see it is not about me. Once I stopped feeling grieved because I could not give the message like God asked me to do, it did not hurt anymore. I know that God's words will not return void. God gave me the opportunity to read the message to my friend and then again to my husband and children, so the word went forth. I was still able to share the message, just not like I thought it would be. That is okay because God showed up in a big way for my friend after I shared that message. We had an opportunity to pray together and what an amazing experience that was to feel God's presence in the room.

If your heart has been broken, you feel sorrow instead of joy, and you feel wounded and rejected, take it to God. He will heal your broken heart. He will send others to you to minister to you. I have had so many words of encouragement spoken over me in the past few days. God is pouring the healing balm of Gilead into the deep recesses of my heart. (Jeremiah 8:22) He stopped the pain and lifted me up out of the pit. (Psalm 40:2) God will do the same for you. He loves His children and He is our Healer.

If you do not know Jesus, Friend, do not keep trying to do life on your own. It is so much better with Jesus. He is the friend that sticks closer than a brother according to Proverbs 18:24. If you believe Jesus is the Son of the Living God, you can call upon Him and be saved. Acts 2:21 says, "And it shall come to pass, that whosoever shall call on the name of the Lord shall be saved." Let this be the best day of your life. Ask Jesus to save you. Repent of your sins. When you recognize you need a Savior, all you have to do is call on Jesus and you will be saved. It is that simple. It takes child-like faith. If you do this, let someone know. Get into a good church with solid Biblical teaching. Read your Bible and if you do not have one, let me know and I will get one for you.

Life is so short. Let's not waste our days feeling sad and rejected. Jesus loves us all and He has not rejected us. We must focus on Jesus and not get caught up in what others say or do. Leave it all in the hands of the Master. God's Word will not return void. It will accomplish what He sent it forth to do. (Isaiah 55:11)

I hope that sharing my story will help someone else. It is hard for me to talk about my personal struggles because I am a private person and do not like to share things like that. I am doing so today to give God all of the praise, honor, and glory for picking me up, dusting me off, and healing my broken heart. This Thankful Thursday I have so much to thank God for. God bless you!

~Bridgett Owens

Time For Healing | Fuel For The Weekend

 

Time for healing?

It is no secret that our nation is suffering. The whole world is suffering. There is a major sickness traveling the globe and causing many to suffer and it is called sin. The one thing most people avoid talking about in our culture is holiness unto God. The Bible says in Romans 3:23, "For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God." We are in a global pandemic and it started back in the Garden of Eden when Eve and Adam sinned first. Yes, we need a physical healing in this nation and internationally as well, but the need is so great for a spiritual healing, too.

3 JOHN 1:2 Beloved, I wish above all things (pray that in all things) that thou mayest prosper and be in health, even as thy soul prospereth.

John said he was praying that in every area of our lives we would be successful, have all our needs met, and have health, in relation to our soul prospering. You see, there are many anorexic Christians. Many Christians are snacking on God's Word, breaking off a piece here and there as it suits them, but never getting satiated on the meat! Churches are full of members who have been faithful in giving of their time and money, but they are still on the milk. You would not give an infant a steak dinner because it would strangle on something it is not ready to consume. What do you do? You give the baby milk and you control how often you give them a bottle, or nurse them. As they grow stronger, they can try baby food which has a little more consistency than milk but it is still gentle enough the baby will not choke. As the fine motor skills develop, the child can pick up finger foods and often these are biscuits that turn to mush in the mouth. Again, it is taking one step closer to the meat and potatoes, but not forcing things too fast. One day you will look across the table at your child who may be taller than you, stronger than you, and they effortlessly chew up vegetables, fruits, and meats. We must continue to feed our inner man spiritual food. We must consume the Gospel and as we learn and grow, we can understand more and take in more and then we are sharing our "lunch" with others as we share the Good News.

John's prayer was not that all who follow Jesus would be wealthy, possess material goods, and be popular. John's prayer was that he wants all Christians to prosper and be healthy just like he wants the same thing for our souls.

PSALM 107:20 He sent His Word, and healed them, and delivered them from their destructions.

Do you remember what the Centurion told Jesus? He impressed Jesus with his great faith. He asked Jesus to heal his servant. Jesus said, "I will come and heal him." (Matthew8:7) The centurion said he was not worthy for Jesus to come to his house. He respected Jesus. He had been observing the things Jesus did and how he had power over sickness, mental illness, and physical infirmities. He tells Jesus in Matthew 8:8 & 9, "Lord I am not worthy that Thou shouldest come under my roof: but speak the word only, and my servant shall be healed. For I am a man under authority, having soldiers under me: and I say to this man, Go, and he goeth; and to another, Come, and he cometh; and to my servant, Do this, and he doeth it."

The centurion understood more than all the religious leaders of that time. He had great faith and he fully understood that Jesus's words were able to speak healing to his servant, though they were not in the same area together, and he would be made whole. It was exactly what Jesus did. He sent the word and the servant was healed. Do we fully understand that concept? We have been trained to believe that if we are good enough, or do enough good things, then God will be happy with us and give us what we want, but if we don't measure up then God is not going to bless us. That is a lie from the enemy. Our own righteousness is not in this equation. God is a healer and when we ask in the name of Jesus for it to be done, it will be done according to our faith. What happens is we often do not have faith. We have a wait and see kind of mindset and then wonder why God is not moving on our behalf. Where is our faith? Where is our confidence in what God can do?

2 CHRONICLES 7:14 If My people, which are called by My name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.

We have some things to do if we want God to forgive our sin and heal our land. What are we supposed to do? First of all we need to humble ourselves. James 4:10 says, "Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and He shall lift you up." We must remember we are not the Creator, we are His creation. We need to step off the pedestal others may have placed us on, or the high places we have lifted ourselves to, and remember who we are. We are nothing without God. He gives us hope, joy, purpose, love, and peace. We have to become humble servants. We are not teachable if we think more of ourselves than we should. We are not able to be molded and shaped into the image of Christ if we think we are good enough on our own.

We have to pray. James 5:16 tells us the fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much. If we want to get things done, strongholds to break, unsaved loved ones to be converted, and healing our physical bodies and our nation from our sins, we have to pray without ceasing. (1 Thessalonians 5:17) We must be in communication with God. He tells us to pray and ask Him for things and to have faith that He will do it. Do not think it could happen, or it might happen. Know that it will happen if you have the faith to believe it.

Finally, we are to seek His face. We often seek God's hands. We want Him to give us more money, give us a better job, give us a spouse, give, give, give... but that kind of relationship is one-sided and it is not fair to God who is our faithful partner. We are not faithful. We fail Him every single day. That may not be what you want to hear, and you may think you don't, but we do. We are flawed human beings and that is why in His great love and mercy, He extends grace to cover us. He wants us to desire His face. He wants us to seek His presence and to be with Him, near Him, intimately acquainted with Him. He wants us to look into His eyes and see the love and mercy of a wonderful Heavenly Father. He wants us to see His expression as He smiles at us. He loves us so much. He has accepted us as we are and then loves us way too much to leave us like He found us. Jeremiah 29:12 & 13 says, "Then shall ye call upon Me, and ye shall go and pray unto Me, and I will hearken unto you. And ye shall seek Me, and find Me, when ye shall search for Me with all your heart." Does He have your whole heart? He does not want parts and pieces; He wants the whole thing. 

God is so patient with us. He was patient with the children of Israel, even when they were disobedient and hard-headed. He still fed them, gave them a pillar of fire for protection, was in the cloud to lead them, and always watching over them. In Psalm 78:40 & 41 it says, "How oft did they provoke Him in the wilderness, and grieve Him in the desert! Yea, they turned back and tempted God, and limited the Holy One of Israel." When we follow our own path, and seek out our own desires for our future, and want to be adored by the masses, we are provoking Him and grieving Him. We are limiting God on what He can do for us. Let's take God out of the box we put Him in, and let Him be God like only He can do! He is a BIG God and He desires to give us good things, perfect gifts, and grace. We have to turn from evil thinking and idolatry. 

If we do these things, He promises to forgive our sins and heal our land. We need God now more than ever before. Things are getting worse in the world instead of better, but we knew that it would. These are just signs for the Christians. Jesus told us what to watch for. These are the days of healing and restoration if we will let Him. Are we standing in His way? Have we been treating God like a spiritual Santa Claus? We have our lists and we want Him to check all the boxes and then we run off to do whatever we want with little to no gratitude for the things we are blessed with. Our Heavenly Father wants regular visits with His children. He wants your time, your focus, your passion. He wants you to love Him and serve Him. He is a wonderful Father and He has promised us amazing things if we will follow Him and allow Him to lead us.

I hope that you have a wonderful weekend. Some of you may be working, and others may be about to enjoy a three day weekend with Martin Luther King, Jr Day on Monday. Spend some time with God this weekend. Give Him the firstfruits of your day. Give Him your very best and watch what He will do. I hope that something I have shared today has given you strength for your journey and light for your way. God bless you!

~Bridgett Owens