Journey With Jesus 365ናሙና

John 5 draws a parallel between the physical condition of the man by the pool of Bethesda and our spiritual state. Just as the man was powerless to heal himself, so are we, by nature, spiritually blind, weak, and incapable of restoring ourselves. However, God has provided a means of spiritual healing, if we are attentive and responsive to His call.

The account of the angel stirring the water teaches the importance of seizing divine opportunities, as they may not come again. The man, paralyzed for 38 years, reminds us to be patient in affliction, recognizing that God sees and knows the length of our struggles. His enduring condition also serves as a humbling reminder to be thankful for our health and to bear temporary discomforts without complaint.

Jesus singles out this man, who neither sought nor expected healing and commands him to rise and walk. This act demonstrates that our restoration comes entirely by God’s grace and power, not by our efforts. The command to “rise and walk” parallels the spiritual call to turn from sin and live in the newness of life, empowered by God’s grace. The man’s immediate healing is a picture of the transformative power of Christ’s word.

True spiritual healing is evidenced by obedience and action. Just as the man rose and walked, those healed spiritually must walk in faith, following God’s direction and bearing whatever He places on us. This story ultimately reminds us of the necessity of God’s grace, the joy of His restoration, and the call to live out our faith in tangible ways.

How does the man’s helpless state before Jesus healed him mirror our spiritual condition apart from God’s grace?

What opportunities might we be overlooking to respond to God’s call for healing or growth in our lives?

In what ways can we demonstrate gratitude and obedience after experiencing God’s transformative work in our lives?

J draws a parallel between the physical condition of the man by the pool of Bethesda and our spiritual state. Just as the man was powerless to heal himself, so are we, by nature, spiritually blind, weak, and incapable of restoring ourselves. However, God has provided a means of spiritual healing, if we are attentive and responsive to His call.