Psalm 103:1 Bless the Lord, O my soul: and all that is within me, bless his holy name. 2 Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits: 3 Who forgiveth all thine iniquities; who healeth all thy diseases; 4 Who redeemeth thy life from destruction; who crowneth thee with lovingkindness and tender mercies; 5 Who satisfieth thy mouth with good things; so that thy youth is renewed like the eagle's.
This passage of scripture teaches us of the work of God in our lives to foster good spiritual and physical health, for God is interested in all aspects of our being. The benefits here referred to begin with the forgiveness of sins, which puts us in a good mental and spiritual state to fend off temptations and diseases, for if we are depressed, down-trodden, or discouraged for any reason, these can have adverse effects on our immune system, and thus prevent us from being able to fight the many diseases to which we are often exposed.
To demonstrate how a person's mental state can affect their physical being, there is the true story of a man who was sentenced to be executed for crimes which he had committed, but as is always the case, he spent many years in jail before the execution actually occurred.
But the day before the death sentence was to take place, he was informed of his coming doom, and when he heard the news, all of his hair, which was previously black, became white as snow overnight, because the sudden stress and depression he was subjected to, caused a ripple effect in his body, causing him to age greatly in one night. Thus, the forgiveness of our sins, which translates into freedom from fear and a clear conscience, plays a critical role in us building a robust immune system. Let's read:
Proverbs 17:22 A merry heart doeth good like a medicine: but a broken spirit drieth the bones.
However, the psalmist also mentions the fact that The Lord fills our mouths with good things, so that our youth may be renewed. It is then necessary for us to find out what these "Good things" are, for as far as we know, everyone would like to have their youthful energies renewed. One of the products of the earth that works wonders when used rightly is the herb, garlic. This herb is known to have many medicinal properties, such as being a natural antibiotic, which can be used in the treatment of the common cold and flu.
But the way in which it is to be used effectively is very important. For instance, it should not be used daily, if we will like to reserve it for medicinal purposes, for daily use will get our bodies accustomed to it, so that when it is really needed for sicknesses, its effect will not be quite the same. In the case of a common cold, we will have to be keen observers of ourselves, being on alert for the very first and slightest signs of an oncoming cold or fever. If as stated, we desire to nip it in the bud, we should use raw garlic two to three times a day for several days, and we will find in most cases that the cold and fevers will abate, or at least be held at bay until our bodies can get rid of them.
Garlic however does no work as quickly as over the counter medicines, and thus we must be patient with it, so that it can do the work which God intended. Like everyone else I used to get the common cold once or twice each year, but after following the previous instructions which the Lord taught us, I've been able to stay clear of the cold for about ten years and counting, even though I would interact with those who may have it on several occasions.
This one natural remedy, coupled together with faith in God, and adherence to the other laws of health, will go a very long way in building a robust immune system and will help us to steer clear of many common diseases. God has put in place several natural agencies which we can avail ourselves of, so that we do not succumb to the status-quo of drugs and other synthetic medicines, for it is not His ideal will that we burden our systems with materials and treatments that work counter to the body's own methods of fighting off diseases.
We therefore end with a passage of scripture which encourages us to consult with The Great Physician, even Jesus Christ, and He may show us a tree, some water, or bitter herbs, that we may apply in the treatment of disease. Let's read:
Jeremiah 8:21 For the hurt of the daughter of my people am I hurt; I am black; astonishment hath taken hold on me. 22 Is there no balm in Gilead; is there no physician there? why then is not the health of the daughter of my people recovered?
May God add His blessing to the study and practice of His word. "Good night" and God bless!