I have experienced many illnesses throughout my life. There have been some who say it is caused by sin, by Satan, by not really being a child of God, by not praying enough, etc. I have felt God’s hand on me a good portion of my life. I have had many unexplained occurrences in my life that I frequently talk about. When talking about God’s amazing interventions, people find them difficult to believe! I discuss these miracles so that God’s name can be glorified.

The Bible explains that all have sinned and fallen short of God’s glory (Romans 3:23-26). I see my illnesses among all my other trials to be the Almighty God working with me. The Bible tells me to praise God and pray that He fill me with His Holy Spirit to lead, guide, teach, protect and comfort me. I pray to God to not only heal my physical body, but my mind, heart, body and spirit.

The Bible says to count it all joy for my trials being that it leads to patience and faith (James 1:2-4). I believe that God does answer prayers. However, the answer may be yes, not right now or no, according to His will!

Some may disagree if the answer is no, but I understand that God didn’t heal Paul, who was told God’s grace was sufficient (2 Corinthians 12:8-9). I know that I am no greater than Paul. I am a sinner who requires continuous work. I believe that illness can occur for different reasons. However, I praise God for my chastisement, knowing this means I am not Fatherless (Hebrews 12:7-9)! 

Allison Manning