Thanking God for Faith, Forgiveness and Healing

The inner dependence between healing and forgiveness is revealed by Jesus in the Gospels of Matthew, Mark and Luke. A paralyzed man is carried by his four friends to Jesus for healing. The house is so crowded they took him up to the roof and removed a section of the roof so the man could be lowered into the presence of Jesus. When Jesus saw their faith, he said to the man, "Son, your sins are forgiven."

Healing the mind and body can be dependent on forgiveness. If this man’s sins had prolonged his illness, guilt also must have been a factor. Guilt confirms that punishment is certain unless contrition is obvious, combined with sincere efforts to make right what is wrong. The desire for forgiveness is absolutely necessary.

All illnesses are not caused by sin, but Jesus recognized this man's sins and consequent guilt. What Jesus said to this man, he will also say you. “Your sins are forgiven. Rise up and go home.” Be assured Jesus forgives all manner of sin, and his purpose is for you to experience his forgiveness.  

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Jesus said to the man, “Get up! Pick up your mat and walk home.” At once the man stood up in front of everyone. He picked up his mat and went home, giving thanks to God.

~Luke 5:24-25 Contemporary English Version

I prayed, “Have pity, Lord! Heal me, though I have sinned against you.”

~Psalm 41:4 Contemporary English Version

For you, O Lord, are good, and ready to forgive, and abundant in lovingkindness to all who call upon you.

~Psalm 85:5 New American Standard Bible