76. The Power of Example
Today’s reading: “The Ministry of Healing” pp. 132-134.
Today we look at the physician’s example, yesterday it was the parents’.
Big Words
- Confidence
- “Not even”
- Influence
- Nothing
We are going to to dwell on the “confidence” of others next week. For now just note how much affectionate confidence people place in a physician who practices old-time, caring. (Notice too, that none of the practices that are mentioned exclusively apply to physicians)
Not even to the minister of the gospel are committed possibilities so great or an influence so far-reaching.
Think about that for a moment.
What great possibilities, what far-reaching influence does a minister have? How is the physician’s greater? What would happen if both a doctor and minister worked on the same evangelistic team?
Do you think it would make a difference if medicine was practised this way? What would it do for evangelism?
Let’s look at the influence that a physician has.
There is nothing that the world needs so much as a knowledge of the gospel’s saving power revealed in Christlike lives.
The physician needs to practice what he or she preaches, self-control and temperance.
If he fails here, however forcible or persuasive his words may be, his influence will tell for evil.
So the physician is offered failure or great influence and possibilities.
Your usefulness in helping the “bruised, weak and wounded” depends on whether or not you allow God’s power to triumph over every harmful habit and lust, restoring your lost kingship, making you masters of yourselves.
Will you choose health of mind or body over self-centred hedonism declaring yourself fit for your job?
What is your choice?
