… There the Lord issued a ruling and instruction for them and put them to the test. He said, ‘If you listen carefully to the Lord your God and do what is right in his eyes, if you pay attention to his commands and keep all his decrees, I will not bring on you any of the diseases I brought on the Egyptians, for I am the Lord, who heals you.’ Exodus 15:25c-26. NIV
Comment
We live in a world full of sin and many of us have lost loved ones to illness; we did recently.
God tells us that if we live life his way then it will be better for us, we’ll be more healthy. Yet so many of us end up doing what they did in the book of Judges where everyone did “as they saw fit”. This is attractive but ends up leading to moral, family and community decay.
When I look at myself I see somebody who needs to “walk the talk” more and put what I know into practice: forgive more, reconcile differences more quickly, and allow my identity to be defined by Jesus rather than other people. If I did this I’d be much more healthy, as would be my relationships with God and my spouse…. and God knows who else!
In what way do you need to apply God’s word and be more “healthy”?
Prayer (as a couple)
Dear Lord, I’m not good at putting your word into practice. Help me through the power of the Holy Spirit for the benefit of myself and all around. In particular help ______ and me to recognize and change behaviour that is unhealthy. Amen.
Pause and consider your behaviour…. e.g. The way you communicate, resolve differences, forgive and reconcile. What comes to mind?
Prayer (for others)
Dear Lord we pray for ______ and ______ and for other couples in our community. May they learn to put your word into practice in a way that pleases and glorifies you. Help them to grow healthily and be a good example to all around. Amen.
Final quote
Faith is taking the promises of God and daring to believe.
