As the sun went down that evening, people throughout the village brought sick family members to Jesus. No matter what their diseases were, the touch of his hand healed every one.

Luke 4:40

Dear God, I’ve always struggled with healing. Just how much do I believe in it? I pray for sick people, but I’m always cautious because I am acutely aware that your answer is often, “No.” Do I need more faith? Does my level of faith affect your answer?”

It reminds me of the story in the next chapter (Luke 5:12-14) when the leper comes to Jesus and says, “Lord, if you are willing, you can heal me and make me clean.” Then it says Jesus reached out his hand, touched him (which was a risk in and of itself) and said, “I am willing. Be healed!”

Note the exclamation mark and where it’s placed. “Be healed!” I don’t often pray with that much confidence. Is confidence the difference.

Father, I can think of several patients here at the clinic that need your healing. I can think of friends and family that need your physical healing. If you are willing, please heal. I also have friends who have tragically lost people close to them. Please draw them to yourself and heal their hearts. Please use all of these situations for your glory. Do not let one ounce of pain be in vain, but use it all so that each life that touches these situations will find its peace in you.

In Jesus’s name I pray,

Amen