Sickness and disease have plagued humanity since the fall of man, claiming more lives annually than accidents, terrorism, or natural disasters. This epidemic is not only physical but also spiritual, deeply rooted in the sinful nature inherited from Adam. However, through the redeeming work of Jesus Christ, we can experience deliverance from both sin and its consequences, including sickness.
The Link Between Sin and Sickness
In John 5, after healing the man at the Pool of Bethesda, Jesus instructed him, “Sin no more, lest a worse thing come unto thee.” This emphasizes the relationship between sin and sickness. Every act of sin, defined as disobedience to God, can lead to physical ailments or worsen existing ones.
However, not all sickness is a direct result of personal sin. For example, in John 9, Jesus clarified that the man born blind was not afflicted due to his or his parents’ sins, but so “the works of God should be revealed in him.” While personal sin may not always cause sickness, the fallen state of humanity makes us prone to its effects.
Sin is disobedience to God, and every act of disobedience weakens our bodies, minds, and spirits, making us susceptible to affliction. However, through Christ’s sacrifice, believers are empowered to overcome this cycle.
Redemption Through Jesus Christ
The root of humanity’s susceptibility to sickness lies in Adam’s disobedience. Romans 5:12 states, “Through one man sin entered the world, and death through sin.” This inherited “body of sin” is vulnerable to sickness and other afflictions. Yet, through Jesus Christ’s obedience, humanity has been offered redemption. Romans 5:19 assures us that just as sin came through Adam, righteousness and freedom come through Jesus.
Christ’s sacrifice on the cross addressed both sin and its consequences, including sickness. Isaiah 53:5 affirms, “By His stripes, we are healed.” Thus, believers can overcome sickness and live in divine health by aligning themselves with Christ’s victory.
Living Free from Sickness
To experience freedom from sickness, believers must:
- Consecrate Their Bodies to God:
Exodus 23:25 promises, “You shall serve the Lord your God, and He will bless your bread and water, and take sickness away from the midst of you.” Presenting one’s body as a living sacrifice (Romans 12:1) invites God’s healing power. - Gain Knowledge of Redemption:
Romans 6:6 explains that the old, sinful self was crucified with Christ so that the body of sin might be destroyed. Recognizing this truth is crucial to living free from sin and sickness. - Act on This Knowledge:
Believers must live out their faith by not yielding to sin or its consequences. Romans 6:13 urges us to offer our bodies as instruments of righteousness. Avoiding actions and habits that harm the body—whether sinful living, unhealthy eating, or negative speech—is key to maintaining divine health.
Practical Steps to Divine Health
- Renew Your Mind:
Internalize the truth of God’s Word concerning health and healing. Declare, “Sickness shall not reign in my body because I am under grace, not law” (Romans 6:14). - Live Righteously:
Avoid sins that harm the body, such as fornication or substance abuse. Align your lifestyle with God’s principles, including proper nutrition, exercise, and rest. - Speak Life:
Use your words to affirm God’s promises. Avoid confessing illness or negativity; instead, declare health and strength over your body.
Walking in Victory
Through Christ, believers are no longer bound by sin or its effects. Romans 6:11 declares, “Reckon yourselves to be dead indeed to sin, but alive to God.” By consecrating our lives to God and living in alignment with His Word, we can enjoy the fullness of health and the freedom purchased by Christ.
Let us embrace this victory, living in righteousness and health, to fulfill our divine purpose and glorify God in all we do.