When I suffered a sudden attack on my health recently, and I spent extra time in God's presence and Word, He led me to study Psalm 103:3. It's a very familiar verse, and I am sure you are acquainted with it. The NLT translation says, "[The Lord] forgives all my sins and heals all my diseases." But have you ever read the Passion Translation for this beautiful promise from God? It says, "You kissed my heart with forgiveness, in spite of all I've done. You've healed me inside and out from every disease." The Lord knew that this particular translation would minister most to me in my suffering. First, because I suspected that I needed forgiveness from Him for withholding forgiveness from someone else - and, therefore, having given Satan an inroad into my life. And, second, because I knew that I needed healing "inside and out from every disease" - especially since I had no idea what my ailment was. The NET translation has an interesting study note for the word "disease" used here. It says, "This relatively rare noun refers to deadly diseases." Glory to God!

James 5:15 in the Message Bible has another precious promise from God along these lines. It says: "Believing-prayer will heal you, and Jesus will put you on your feet. And if you've sinned, you'll be forgiven - healed inside and out." Think about this: Jesus doesn't just want to forgive your sins - He wants to heal you inside and out! Notice that the key to this treasure is "believing-prayer." Why? Because, as the Bible says: "When you ask [for forgiveness, healing, wisdom, etc.], you must believe and not doubt, because the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. That person should not expect to receive anything from the Lord. Such a person is double-minded and unstable in all they do." (James 1:6-8 NIV) The devil will try to convince you that you don't have enough faith to receive from God. But that's a lie. God has given every single person the "measure of faith" they need to receive His precious gift of salvation, and every other blessing in this life, and in the next. (Romans 12:3 NKJV) What Satan doesn't want you to know is that faith is a decision. You decide to trust God. When you do that, no devil in hell or person on earth can stop you from receiving the blessings of God.

If you are a follower of Christ, the Lord wants to forgive all your sins and heal all your diseases. He wants to heal you inside and out! Believe and receive it today!

Prayer: Lord, You say in Your Word that You are the Lord Who heals me. (Exodus 15:26) Work in my heart so that I will always turn to You first for my healing needs. Show me when I should see a doctor or take a remedy of some sort, but help me not to depend on these things the way that I depend on You. Thank You that as I look to You as my Divine Physician, You will heal me inside and out!