Jewels From JohnCampione

When We Have No One 

"The sick man answered, 'Sir, I don't have anyone here to put me in the pool when the water is stirred up; while I am trying to get in, somebody else gets there first.'" John 5:7 (NKJV)

The pool near the Sheep Gate in Jerusalem, called Bethesda, was a unique place. It was believed an angel went down at a certain time into the pool, and stirred the water so that whoever stepped in first was healed of whatever infirmity they had. The Bible records that a very large multitude of sick, and disabled people were all awaiting their turn.

It was here that Jesus met this man who was bed-ridden with an infirmity for thirty-eight long years. Jesus knew everything about the man and his predicament and asked him a very important question, “Do you want to get well?” His reply was amazing. Not knowing who it was who was asking this question, he replied, “Sir, I have no man…” John 5:7 (KJV). There was no man to help him, assist him or care for him. What no man did, or could do, for thirty-eight years, Jesus did in an instant. At the very words of Jesus, he got up, took up his mat, and walked.

Most of us can recall situations in our lives when we were let down by someone whom we trusted, or of a time when someone gave their word and didn’t remember or bother to keep it, or when someone did promise to help, but pulled back at the last minute. There are other situations when we looked up to a physician or a specialist, hoping they could reverse a diagnosis, only to find that they could offer no hope.  

Whatever our circumstance may be, let’s shift our focus off of people and look to the Lord who is close at hand. Numbers 23:19 says it this way, “God is not like people. He tells no lies. He is not like humans. He doesn’t change his mind. When he says something, he does it. When he makes a promise, he keeps it.” (GW)

Here’s a comforting thought from Romans 10:11,"The Scripture says, 'Whoever believes in Him (the Lord) will not be disappointed.'" (GNT).