Matthew 9:2 (NASB)
2 And they brought to Him a paralytic lying on a bed. Seeing their faith, Jesus said to the paralytic, “Take courage, son; your sins are forgiven.”

Matthew, Mark and Luke all tell the story of Jesus and the paralytic who was brought to Him by friends of that man. Jesus used this as an opportunity to show us that forgiveness is far more significant than healing.

Yet, what is the subject of many of my prayers? Do I give forgiveness the priority or do I pray for healing of self, family, and friends? Have I really understood just what a gift the forgiveness of my sins and sins of others is in the scheme of things? Without forgiveness of sin, we are lost for eternity. Assurance of forgiveness and daily repentance of my sin is much more important.

But, there is nothing wrong with asking for healing. Jesus healed. Jesus heals even today. It is just a matter of priority, which is why Jesus responded to the paralytic the way He did. The man who was healed went away praising God. I wonder if he understood what it meant to be forgiven as compared to the wonderful healing that he was also given? I hope so.

Father, I praise You for the gift of forgiveness of sin. Help me to keep it in proper perspective with the other prayers that I bring to You. May it always be your glory that is the motivation for my prayers. May my repentant heart always be in my thoughts as Your grace and mercy covers my undeserving soul. Amen.

Always praying for the glory of God,