No doubt that when we or someone we love hears the devastating news of cancer or some other fatal disease, we may wonder what we did wrong to deserve that punishment.

In the Old Testament, the people of God had the mindset that if their parents and their ancestors sinned greatly, they were then afraid they would be the ones to pay for their sins – either through disaster or some grave disease.  In fact, if one was born handicapped, they believed it was because of the sin of the parents.

In 2 Kings 22:1-13, Josiah who is the son of David, is the King of Jerusalem.  He became King at the age of eight years old.  Josiah loved the Lord and was a fair man – “He did not turn aside to the right or to the left” (2 kings 22:2).  Josiah trusted that his people would deal honestly when he asked them to count the money and give it to the workers to repair the House of the Lord.  It wasn’t until the Book of the Law was found that Josiah realized that his ancestors had not obeyed the Words of the Book.  Now, he feared the wrath of God (2 Kings 22:13).

Still today, when people receive bad news from the doctor stating they have cancer or a fatal disease, they believe or think that it is because they have done something wrong.  But, God does not punish us for our sins.  God sent Jesus Christ to pay for our sins.  God does not give us cancer or make us sick!  However, God will be with you and give you peace in knowing that your suffering will end.  It’s how we respond to our circumstances in life that matter – believing that God will work all things out for God’s glory!

Let us pray…Gracious God, we pray for all those who are suffering.  Help us to remember that you love us and do not punish us – but hold us closely to you in your loving arms.  Help us to remember that You sent Your Son – Jesus Christ so that we will meet you face-to-face.  Amen.