Do You Want to Be Healed?Sample

Throughout this plan, we've examined the encounter between Jesus and the man at the pool of Bethesda. We've learned that:

1. Jesus asks us if we want to be healed - a question that's often more complex than it appears.
2. Our problems are typically bigger and deeper than we realize.
3. We need Jesus to save us because we cannot save ourselves.

Now, it's time to apply these truths to our lives. How do we position ourselves to receive the healing Jesus offers?

First, we need to identify precisely where we need healing. Earlier in this plan, I asked you to complete the sentence: "I wonder if Jesus could heal my _____." If you haven't done so yet, take a moment to fill in that blank. Make it real and tangible. What is that place in your life where you long for Christ's healing touch?

But here's where many of us stop. We identify what we want Jesus to heal and ask Him to heal it. But when was the last time you asked Jesus what He wanted to heal in you?

This leads to our second step: Ask Jesus, "What do you want to heal in me?" This question opens us up to the possibility that He sees something different - perhaps something bigger and deeper - than we've identified.

I'm often surprised by what comes to mind when I pray this prayer. Sometimes, it's an area of unforgiveness I've been harboring. Other times, it's a thinking pattern contrary to God's truth. Occasionally, it's a relationship that needs attention. Even in writing this plan, I’ve recognized an area of my leadership as a pastor that needs to be healed so I don’t continue to lead out of my woundedness.

Psalm 139:23-24 offers a beautiful prayer: "Search me, O God, and know my heart! Try me and know my thoughts! And see if there be any grievous way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting!"

The third step is to examine how your attitudes, beliefs, or choices might oppose the healing Jesus wants to bring. What expectations might be in the way? Maybe the obstacle isn't out there in your circumstances. Perhaps the obstacle is within you.

Like Naaman, we might be resisting Jesus' methods of healing. Our pride, comfort with the familiar, or fear of the unknown can all hinder receiving what Jesus offers.

James 4:6 reminds us, "God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble." When we humble ourselves, acknowledge our needs, and surrender our expectations, we position ourselves to receive God's grace and healing.

Finally, I invite you to pray the "Bethesda Prayer" daily. It's a summary of what we've learned from this passage, and it's a prayer I've been praying regularly:

"Jesus, I have a problem, bigger and deeper than I realize. I need someone to save me because I can't save myself. Jesus, save me, a sinner, and heal me."

This healing may happen instantly, as it did for the man at Bethesda in John 5. Or it may occur over time through a process like Naaman in 2 Kings 5. But I believe Jesus is still in the business of healing and wants to do that work in our lives today.

If this plan has impacted you and you want to take your next steps toward healing, I've created an "I Want to Be Healed Action Plan" that provides additional guidance and practical steps. Click here for complimentary access today!

Remember, Jesus asks you, "Do you want to be healed?" Today, if your answer is "yes," be open to how He brings that healing. Trust that His way is better than your expectations, and His healing goes deeper than you could imagine.