27/10/09         READY TO HEAL THE SICK     

Scripture – Acts 28:8 “…the father of Publius lay sick of a fever and dysentery. Paul went in to him and prayed, and he laid his hands on him and healed him.

 Observations – Paul was ready to take advantage of the situation. If sickness was there he went and prayed for healing. It is not a matter of waiting for someone to ask, but going and doing what God has commanded. The man is healed and this results in everybody on the island, who are sick (having diseases) coming for healing. They were all healed. His miraculous deliverance from the snake bite and healing of the sick certainly opened the people of Malta to the gospel and to generosity.

 Application – We should be ready to pray. Sometimes our own situation can become so big in our lives that we neglect to see the opportunities that are around us. We cannot always predict the result but we are commissioned to do it whether it leads to revival or persecution. Paul experienced both – as of course did Jesus. For years the church neglected healing, but now there is much more acceptance. Those who are sick and suffering are usually ready to be healed.

 Prayer  -  Help me to be ready to lay hands on the sick. Help me Lord, to be ready for every situation and to take my eyes off myself. Lord, I am trusting You to confirm Your word with signs following.