Faithful to Heal

 

Intercession That Still Matters

Paul went in to see him and, after prayer, 

placed his hands on him and healed him.

Acts 28:8 

Scripture Reading: Acts 28:1-10

As the book of Acts draws to a close, the apostle Paul is still ministering boldly, even in unfamiliar territory. Shipwrecked on the island of Malta, he doesn’t retreat or remain passive. Instead, he steps forward in faith. When Publius’ father lies sick with fever and dysentery, Paul prays, lays hands on him, and the man is healed. Soon, others come, and “the rest of the sick on the island came and were cured” (Acts 28:9).

This account is not merely historical—it is deeply theological. Healing did not end with Jesus. It did not end with the apostles. It flows from the compassion of God, whose Spirit continues to intercede, heal, and restore through His people. Intercessory prayer, especially for healing, is not an obsolete tradition but a vital act of faith and love.

William Barclay reminds us, “Miracles happen when human faith and divine power meet.” Paul’s act of praying for healing was rooted not in spectacle, but in quiet faith—a belief that God is still at work in the brokenness of this world.

Alexander Maclaren similarly emphasizes, “The measure of our faith is the measure of God’s power manifested through us.” When we pray for healing, we are not guaranteeing outcomes, but offering ourselves as channels of divine grace. Like Paul, we are called to act in bold, loving intercession—not because everyone will be healed, but because we trust the One who hears us.

Healing prayer is always relational: it arises out of love for the suffering and trust in the God who sees. Sometimes God heals physically. Sometimes He grants strength to endure, or peace to let go. But always, He is present. And always, He honors the prayer of faith.

Prayer

Lord, you are our Healer—Jehovah Rapha. You touched the leper, raised the dead, and opened blind eyes. And still today, you heal through the prayers of your people. Help us, like Paul, to step forward in faith, to pray with boldness, and to love with compassion. May we never grow weary of praying for the sick, trusting that you are at work—sometimes in power, always in love. Use us as your vessels for healing—body, mind, and soul. In Jesus’ name, Amen.