Healing

“Confess your trespasses to one another, and pray for one another, that you may be healed.”—James 5:16

When we have health problems, the Bible encourages us to believe in God for healing. While it can be natural to focus on ourselves, James described two keys to healing that may surprise us: confessing our sins and praying for others.

Confession changes us in many ways. Confession can help us recognize harmful lifestyles and habits and remove impediments that separate us from God. The process of confessing our sins helps us recognize mistakes and the enormous impact these sins can have. We see how these sins can block the flow of the Spirit.

Confession should lead us to forgiveness and being clean in God’s sight. We can be reminded that we should have “clean hands and a pure heart” when we come into His presence (Psalm 24:4).

James also said that we should “pray for one another.” Instead of just thinking about our own needs, we should show concern for others by praying for them. This practice can help us take our minds off our problems. Praying for others can even help release God’s power.

If you are burdened with physical needs, ask God to reveal any sins or problems in your life. Confess those sins and seek to be clean in His sight. But also think about people you know who have physical problems. Pray diligently for them. Then watch to see what God does in your life.

Reflection Question: Make a list of people who need healing, and pray for them this week.