“And said, If thou wilt diligently hearken to the voice of the LORD thy God, and wilt do that which is right in his sight, and wilt give ear to his commandments, and keep all his statutes, I will put none of these diseases upon thee, which I have brought upon the Egyptians: for I am the LORD that healeth thee.”
-Exodus 15:26
Exodus 15:26 is a verse that encapsulates the profound nature of God’s relationship with His people, highlighting His role as a healer and protector. The verse reads: “If you will diligently listen to the voice of the Lord your God, and do that which is right in his eyes, and give ear to his commandments and keep all his statutes, I will put none of the diseases on you that I put on the Egyptians, for I am the Lord, your healer.”
It stands today with us as well if we follow His ways, commandments and His voice – and trust in Him. He will lead us to safety and heal our hearts and souls. We need to seek Him first in all we do.
The Covenant of Healing: This verse is set in the context of God’s covenant with Israel. It follows the miraculous deliverance of the Israelites from Egypt and their crossing of the Red Sea. Here, God promises to be their healer, but this promise is conditional upon their obedience and faithfulness. It’s a powerful reminder that the relationship between God and His people is interactive and reciprocal.
When we obey and align with His Word and follow Him and do all according to His will and purpose for our lives, we will be healed in more ways than one. Our body heart mind and soul is in His very capable hands.
God as Jehovah-Rapha: The name Jehovah-Rapha, meaning “The Lord Who Heals,” is revealed in this passage. It’s not just physical healing that’s in view here, but a holistic restoration—spiritual, emotional, and societal. The diseases of Egypt can be seen as symbolic of the spiritual and moral corruption that God’s people are to be delivered from.
The evil world and chaotic setting in our society today is how God will heal. He will lighten our load and highlight the path in which we should walk. He will heal our souls and wash us clean.
Moral Implications: The moral takeaway from Exodus 15:26 is the importance of obedience and trust in God. It teaches us that adherence to God’s commandments is not merely a legalistic requirement but a path to well-being and protection from the ‘diseases’—be they literal or figurative—that afflict humanity.
As we reflect and meditate on His Word and partake of His goodness in all we do, we will see His promises come to fruition. He will ultimately heal us in the way it is most beneficial for us. The biggest healing is of our souls that we can live forever through Christ.
Exodus 15:26 serves as a reminder that God’s desire for His people is wholeness and health. It challenges us to reflect on our own lives and consider how we are responding to God’s call to obedience. Are we listening to His voice and doing what is right in His eyes?
Reflection:
- How can we apply the principle of obedience to God in our modern context?
- What are the ‘diseases’ in our lives that we need healing from?
- In what ways can we become more attuned to the voice of God?
“Dear Lord, You are Jehovah-Rapha, our healer. We thank You for Your promises and Your faithfulness. Help us to listen to Your voice and to walk in Your ways without fail. Heal us from diseases that plague our spirits and our societies. May we find our strength and restoration in You. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.”
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