At times we might receive a gift which comes from the heart, but the giver seems unaware of our needs. This can happen if we are allergic to something like chocolate, but we happen to be gifted a box of chocolate. Maybe we are not the kind of people who enjoy doing crafts, but a friend presents us with a gift card for the local arts and crafts store.

Our friends and family can have good intentions but still fail to understand our needs at times.

Let’s look at things from another perspective. What if someone went out of their way to give us a gift they knew we needed, but we chose to leave it sitting around unused? The gift giver might feel hurt and unappreciated.

God the Father and His Son Jesus have given us all a gift. That gift comes at a great price, and it is given out of an understanding of our weaknesses as human beings and our needs.

In Isaiah 53:5 we read that we are healed by the stripes of Jesus. With each lash He took He was giving us the gift of healing. It was a gift he knew we needed and one He was willing to give. In James 5:14 we learn how to use this gift. We are told, if anyone is sick, they should call for the elders. The elders will then anoint them with oil and pray for them. We should receive this gift, show our appreciation for it and use it.

We live in a period of time like no other. Technology, understanding of the body, and medical knowledge have advanced in many ways. But one thing remains the same. People get sick. We break bones, we have internal issues, our hearts stop working properly and our bodies can struggle.

It can seem easy to pick up the phone and make a doctor’s appointment. At times, the doctor is able to examine a patient and know exactly what is wrong and how to treat the problem. There is nothing wrong with seeking medical care and there are times when we should do just that. However, we should not forget about the gift we have been given. Don’t leave it sitting around unused. It was given at a great price with your best interest in mind.

When you are suffering from a health issue, whatever it might be, reach out to the ministry. Ask to be anointed and ask that the gift of his stripes be applied to your body for healing.

God gives us many blessings and gifts to help us through this physical life. We should appreciate and learn to take advantage of all of them when the time is applicable. In Jeremiah 29:11 we learn a little more about the love of God. He has plans for us all. He wants to prosper us and not to harm us, to give us hope and a future.

Let’s embrace the many ways in which He offers us the help we need to prosper and have a future. Let's take His gifts and apply them all to our lives as needed.