Jesus never wastes his breath. He never misleads anyone. He never makes promises he will not keep. 

Jesus spoke three times in John 5:1-15.

“Would you like to get well?”

“Stand up, pick up your mat, and walk!”

“Now, you are well; so stop sinning, or something even worse may happen to you.”

Wellness requires willingness. Not everyone wants to get well. This man initially sounds like he is one of those. However, when Jesus commanded him to stand, pick up his mat, and walk, he did.

Jesus did not sugarcoat the situation. Sin placed that man in the position of requiring supernatural intervention. Jesus let him know how a return to sin would include a return to unhealth even worse than he had previously experienced. 

Sometimes, getting well is a choice, a matter of obediently redirecting our lives away from what hinders and hurts us. 

Sometimes, staying well is also a choice, a matter of obediently redirecting our lives away from what hinders and hurts us. 

Jesus had a unique question for this man at this unique time and place. What is his unique question for you today? What is your trusting response? How will life be different from this point forward?

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I will reorient my life toward health and obedience.

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Our Father, what you want for me is better than what I want for myself. Show me the adjustments I need to make to live a life consistent with your purpose for me and empowered by healthy habits. I want to honor you with every aspect of my life. Amen.