Panacea

From the beginning of time, men and women have searched for instant solutions. Special baths or treatments. Herbs or pills. Anything to end pain or foster health and pleasure.

For thousands of years, many have turned to the roots of the plant known as Panax ginseng. Found in northern China, this plant was thought to provide instant energy and even cure physical issues. Famed biologist Carl Linnaeus named the genus “Panax” because this word is Greek for “cure-all.” This is the source of the English word “panacea,” which means “a remedy for all ills or difficulties.”

People in many nations, throughout the centuries, have looked for various kinds of panacea. This seemed to be the motive of many people during Jesus’ earthly ministry. They were eager to receive healing, food, or relief from other physical needs. But Jesus wanted them to look beyond the miracles and focus on “the food which endures to eternal life.” Instead of being obsessed with meeting their immediate needs, He wanted them to think about God—about serving Him and seeking first His Kingdom.

Others experienced variations on this same tendency. We see this, for example, in the case of Simon, who had practiced magic in Samaria. After seeming to respond to the Gospel through Philip’s preaching, he revealed his true character when he saw the display of the Spirit’s power through Peter’s ministry.

When Simon tried to buy true spiritual power and authority, Peter knew that his heart was not right. Simon needed to “repent of this wickedness” and pray for forgiveness (Acts 8:9-24).

In your life, remember to celebrate the many ways God can meet your needs: through healing and forgiveness…wisdom and blessing. But remember that, above all, He is interested in your heart. Focus on your relationship with Jesus. Worship Him. Serve Him. Seek His Kingdom.