"The testing of your faith produces patience" (James 1:3 NKJV).

Axel: While sick, I had time to reflect on recent events.

Axel: Run faster, Bryan! You’re making us lose!

Axel: I owe Bryan an apology. Though he’s not a fast runner, he has a lot of other skills.

Emily: I’ve been thinking about the importance of habits that help us stay healthy or help our bodies heal when we’re sick.

Illustration texts: Eat healthy foods. Get adequate sleep. Dress appropriately. Drink plenty of liquids.

Emily: Lately, I’ve been skipping my vegetables.

Axel: And remember what we learned in health class? Our bodies’ immune system is strengthened by overcoming an illness. When we’re sick, the immune system builds defenses against that illness.

Emily: That’s right! The next time we are faced with the same ailment, our bodies draw on the defenses built up the last time we had that illness to then be able to overcome it more easily in the future or completely ward it off.

Emily: I’ve been thinking about how Jesus understands what it’s like to not feel well. The Bible tells us He was sometimes tired¹ or hungry.² And He suffered great pain on the cross.

Axel: The Apostle Paul taught, “For our high priest is able to understand our weaknesses. He was tempted in every way that we are, but he did not sin.”³

Emily: That’s encouraging. And the Bible stories about Jesus healing the sick are also reassuring!

Jesus is with you to help you recuperate. Ask Him to help you get well and look to Him to help you take note of the positive experiences that are there for you.

Can you think of something you gained from an illness?

Footnotes:
¹ See John 4:6.
² See Mark 11:12.
³ Hebrews 4:15 ICB