The Healer

There are words that may trigger an email or social media filter: one such word [which I will not type-out] rhymes with but not to be confused with "balm." We all know the effects of a soothing and cooling salve or ointment for tired, sore and aching muscles. Israel rebelled against God thus the nation was both a physical and spiritual mess; Jeremiah shared the nation's pain as he wrote, "Is there no balm in Gilead? is there no physician there? Why has not the health ... of my people been restored?" (Jeremiah 8:22, NASB). The region of Gilead was known for its balsam ointment yet the suffering of God's people continued in a place otherwise known for healing. While we may use ointments to bring relief, they do not heal; foolishly, we follow-after and embrace things set before us that deliver only temporal joy to the soul! God declared to His people, "I am the LORD, your healer" (Exodus 15:26, ESV), and the healing He brings is beyond compare through Jesus Christ, the Great Physician. "He Himself [Jesus] bore our sins in His body on the tree, that we might die to sin and live to righteousness. By His wounds you have been healed." (1 Peter 2:24, ESV). Such healing makes the heart whole; it's a deep soul-healing unlike the temporal soothing found in topical applications. Furthermore, over and over through the course of life's sufferings, Jesus "heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds" (Psalm 147:3, ESV). There really is a balm - there is a healer, and He is on-duty and attending at all times. Why not turn your heart to ... the Healer.