For many people, health is one of the most important things for a good life. But what exactly is health? What does the Bible teach about it? And what is disease? Let's find out. In this first part we will discuss health. In the second part, we examine what disease is and how we can recover.
3 John 1:2: “Beloved, I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in health, even as thy soul prospereth.” It is not only John's wish, but also God's. He loves each of us. That's why He wants the best for us.
That's what we read in Jeremia 29:11: "For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the LORD, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end."
God created us and composed us in such a way that the various functions of out body are perfectly attuned to each other and work together harmoniously. In addition, our body has vital forces, with which our body can recover to a certain extent when damaged.
God does set conditions for health. "And said, If thou wilt diligently hearken to the voice of the LORD thy God, and wilt do that which is right in his sight, and wilt give ear to his commandments, and keep all his statutes, I will put none of these diseases upon thee, which I have brought upon the Egyptians: for I amt he LORD that healeth thee." Exodus 15:26.
Again, God created us, designed and made our bodies, minds and souls. He knows best how to treat ourselves. He lets us know that in the Bible, which contains “commandments and statutes” that explain to us how best to pursue health.
“The youth should be taught that the laws of nature are the laws of God—as truly divine as are the precepts of the Decalogue. The laws that govern our physical organism, God has written upon every nerve, muscle, and fiber of the body.” Education 196.3.
Proverbs 3:1-8: "My son, forget not my law; but let thine heart keep my commandments:
For length of days, and long life, and peace, shall they add to thee. Let not mercy and truth forsake thee: bind them about thy neck; write them upon the table of thine heart: So shalt thou find favour and good understanding in the sight of God and man. Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. Be not wise in thine own eyes: fear the LORD, and depart from evil. It shall be health to thy navel, and marrow to thy bones."
Out of love He has given us free will. We can make our own choice about what we do with our lives and our bodies. Proverbs 3 says that we will live longer, experience more peace (better mental health), and have greater physical health. Living according to God's will is a lifestyle that will surely be blessed!
In summary: God wants us to be in good health. He teaches us that living in accordance with His (natural) laws can prevent illness. Obedience to God will be blessed by Him.
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