I have observed that many Christians shy away from medications and doctors’ prescriptions. As if to say, they have fallen short of their faith in God.
It is important to note that our Lord wants you well. And He is not opposed to using physical means to deal with physical ailments and problems.
I must also mention that regular medical checkups and physical examinations are a must both for men and women especially from age of 40. Younger adults including athletes do need to pay attention to how they feel and to know their bodies.
There was a time when Jesus was asked about taxes, He said: “Render to Caesar what belongs to Caesar, and to God what belongs to God.” Just as we honor God with our bodies, we also use practical means to care for them.
There is absolutely nothing wrong with medicine. Physicians, nurses and personal support workers are not bad people. They are your team of health care experts.
Sickness is the enemy, not medicine. Medicine and medical science are available for our well-being. I will say they are a Godsend.
Yes, disease is dis-ease. It is uncomfortable, stressful, and can be disruptive. We must resist the enemy (and his attacks) and he will flee.
Therefore, if you are having a headache, it is ok to use some over the counter pain medicine.
If you have an allergic reaction, take an allergy medication, puffer, etc.
If you have a yeast infection, urinary tract infection (UTI), you would appreciate the necessary treatments which provide relief in little time.
Of course, these must be taken under the direction of a health care professional. A note of caution: do not self medicate. Also, pay attention to side effects. Medications must be taken or used with the direction of a licenced health care professional.
As we use deodorants, to prevent unpleasant body odours, eye drops for dry eyes and lip balm for chapped lips, what is wrong with giving your internal organs and body systems the boost they need for support, strength and repair?
We must pray to God about everything we go through including the need for healing. Sometimes He heals supernaturally and other times, He provides healing through medicine and medical science. He is the Balm of Gilead.
I have experienced ill health and it’s not a fun position to be in. I thank God for healing me and I also thank Him for the doctors, health care and good hospitals that I had access to.
Paul advised Timothy to “no longer drink only water, but use a little wine for your stomach’s sake and your frequent infirmities.” I Timothy 5:23 NKJV
While you are working on your faith, or while you are waiting on God, please do not despair. It is ok to accept medical help and medicine. Don’t let anyone or certain cultures make you feel otherwise. Conduct your necessary research, be informed and ensure the medical health plan being provided suits your unique need.
Some treatments may be painful as in the case of surgery, but the pain of recovery far outweighs the pain of sickness. Just like the pain of exercise and workouts far outweigh the pain of sickness.
I have witnessed tragic outcomes where Christians rejected medicine, only to experience severe complications or even death. They put their health and lives on the line because they were unable to strike a balance between Faith and Medicine. Unfortunately, some believed they owed explanations to others why they were sick and unable to get their faith to work.
The absence of medication does not indicate healing. It is the absence of symptoms and their root causes that signals healing.
Some Christians feel they are frustrated and tired of treatments and medications. However, they are actually just tired of the sickness and Satan’s attacks. Let’s keep the target in focus and deal with it squarely. The culprit is the disease which must be dealt with, not medicine.
The fact that you stopped taking your medications does not mean you are healed. When you are confirmed healed by a physician, he/she will be happy to get you off the treatment and medicines. You will feel strong and gradually be able to do those things you were not able to do before. When Jesus healed Peter’s mother-in-law, she got up and started serving them.
“Now a leper came to Him, imploring Him, kneeling down to Him and saying to Him, “If You are willing, You can make me clean.” Then Jesus, moved with compassion, stretched out His hand and touched him, and said to him, “I am willing; be cleansed.” And He strictly warned him and sent him away at once, and said to him, “See that you say nothing to anyone; but go your way, show yourself to the priest, and offer for your cleansing those things which Moses commanded, as a testimony to them.” Mark 1:40-41, 43-44 NKJV
Jesus after healing the leper, instructed him to say nothing to anyone, basically he was not to mingle with others as indicated by the law but first show himself to the priest and do all that was necessary to be allowed back into normal life and society.
We must not have the cart before the horse. Confirm your health status first before stopping your medications or declining medical help.
As Christians, we believe in the healing power of God. The Word is still alive and has healing abilities. “Is anyone among you sick? Let him call for the elders of the church, and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord. And the prayer of faith will save the sick, and the Lord will raise him up. And if he has committed sins, he will be forgiven.” James 5:14-15 NKJV
The importance of prayer in our lives and for our health cannot be overemphasized.
When it comes to medical issues, as James have advised in the text above, it is necessary to call the elders in our churches to lay hands on you if you are sick.
I would like to make another point here. If you or anyone close to you is facing a medical emergency, please dial 911 or the emergency helpline in your vicinity immediately. Your pastor is not the right person to call first. This should be done immediately after seeking medical help.
Ensure the medical experts are dealing with the situation before you call on the elders for prayers. Remember you are never alone; God is with you even during an emergency. Dialing the emergency helpline does not mean you have deprioritized God.
Wisdom is the principal thing. Let us apply wisdom in keeping healthy, strong and maximizing a long life. Jesus Christ wants a healthy body; He wants you whole.
Series Conclusion: Living in Wholeness and Wisdom
Caring for God’s temple is both a privilege and a responsibility. From honoring God through purity and protection, to stewarding your health, to walking in faith and wisdom, your body is sacred, and your actions matter.
This series has highlighted three key truths:
- Your body is God’s temple. Treat it with reverence, honor, and care.
- God desires wholeness. Physical and mental health are part of His plan for your life.
- Faith and wisdom go hand in hand. Prayer, Scripture, and medical care work together to support your body and your calling.
Let this series inspire intentional living. Protect your temple, seek healing when needed, and walk in faith and wisdom every day. Your body is sacred, your life is precious, and God’s Spirit dwells within you—guiding, strengthening, and empowering you for His glory.
Take the time to reflect on your habits, your health, and your spiritual practices. Ask God for guidance, and commit to stewarding your temple well. As you honor God with your body, you will experience the fullness of life He intends for you—spiritually, physically, and emotionally.