The Evidence for Christian Medicine:  An Introduction

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General Principles of Spirituality and Health

 

When discussing the role of spirituality in health, we encounter a rapidly expanding field of medical research.  The way the body responds to faith, prayer, meditation, and outward religiosity is one of the most active fields in medical research right now.

It is tempting to say that spirituality always benefits physical health, and every study seems to prove that, but that is not entirely true.  While this section will discuss some of those studies, it does not mean that every single one shows benefit in all situations.  While most do, studies have shown no benefit in some cases.

Theologically, that makes sense.  Why?   As I like to say, our Lord and Savior is no Santa Claus.  He is not some entity that you invoke in prayer, and then you achieve your desired result.  Instead, He is the Creator of the universe, who wants a deep, personal relationship with you.  He will be your shield and your guide through this world.

But it does not mean that he will exempt you from the trials and tribulations that afflict us all.  Instead, He promises the opposite.

That means for us, we will not be exempt from the physical trials and illnesses of this fallen planet.  But since God uses even the sinful and the fallen to do the good, we know by faith that He will be with us every step of the way, even in the worst of times.

Why does he allow illness and injury to befall us?  Here are a few reasons:
 

• The illness can serve as a reminder to the arrogant and boastful of their frailty, and to sever their ill-begotten self-reliance, which ultimately can never succeed.

• The illness serves as a trial to further hone one’s faith and to make the believer even more dependent on His love.

• Similarly, the illness may deepen the Christian’s understanding of Christ’s suffering and make the afflicted more Christ-like in the eyes of others.

• Those who are ill often finally learn genuine compassion and can now relate better to others.

• The illness provides a means that others may serve the Lord through treatment, compassion, and kindness.

• The afflicted may serve as an inspiration to others around them, as they bring themselves closer to God through their hard-won humility.

• The illness provides the physical vehicle through which the afflicted may ultimately be brought home to Christ.

• Finally, for those afflicted with diseases obviously obtained through detrimental behavior (e.g., the alcoholic with liver disease), the disease can be a warning to all around the afflicted about the dangers of a broken life.  However, even in such times of despair, the afflicted can still become that beacon of light and an example to all if they turn their gaze once more to Christ.

 

As you read through the following sections, it will become apparent that a Christian spiritual life is beneficial to the body on numerous levels.  However, always remember that we do not worship the Lord for our own health benefit.  We do so because it is the proper thing to do, as he is our Creator who sent his only Son to save us all from ourselves.

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