Lovingly dedicated to my devoted and faithful wife—Jessie Mae, whose strong faith, untiring, willing and sacrificial labors have been responsible for the comfort, healing, and victory of many.

Her determination never to give up until victory is gained has been a great support to me. When the going have been difficult, the hours long, the battles hard, the days stormy, and the nights cold, she stood as a rock with unwavering faith that would not let go until victory came for those in need. How I praise and thank God for blessing me with one of His Jewels to be a help—meet to fulfill the great commission, and do the work He has called us to do. Together, we are determined to be true until God calls us home.

Lawrence J. Chesnut

Preface

It is with much joy, faith, and a deep interest in the sick and suffering this book is sent forth on its mission of mercy. Many who are sick and suffering are reaching forth with beckoning hands, and calling for help. Untold numbers are anxiously waiting for some one who has faith in God to come their way and tell them the story of healing, and how they can become a recipient of this needed blessing.

My heart goes out in great sympathy to the perplexed, confused, heartbroken, and suffering world. When the need as so great, it seems in many instances, faith in God for healing of the body is almost, if not altogether abandoned, or cast aside as something of little or no value. One would not need to be an expert observer to detect the need of a mighty revival of the power of God in healing the sick of our land.

This is not an exhaustive treatment of the subject, but a brief, simple, Biblical, and uncompromising approach to, and expounding of a very timely, and vital truth. I have endeavored to connect God's Word in such manner that will build faith, and lead those in need to where they can have faith in God that will bring the desired help.

The reader will at once detect the little amount of personal comment by the writer. The purpose is to have one continual flow of the promises of God, sent forth as the voice of God to those in need of physical help. The promises of God are for all, and given to every one who believes. It is hoped that the reader will take this as God's message to him. It is God speaking. Jesus suffered, died, and rose that all might have spiritual and physical health. God has blessed in our ministry of praying for the sick. It has been our pleasure to witness many healings and miracles wrought by the power of God, through faith and prayer. The promises of God are not mere theory with us. They are a reality, and an experience. A large volume of outstanding healing and miracles could be given here, but space will not permit. Many today are happy and enjoying health, who were once held in the bond of afflictions.

Dear reader, if you are in need of physical healing, go to God. Put in for it. Yes, it is for you, and you can get it. Follow the Word of God closely as set forth in this book. Obey it to the fullest, then, “Believe and thou shalt see the glory of God.”

May the Lord wonderfully bless His message to the healing of many. Look up, dear sick and afflicted ones, healing and victory are for you.

Yours prayerfully,
Lawrence J. Chesnut.

Chapter I
Introduction

By Divine Physical Healing we mean supernatural aid restoring the body to normal health. A supernatural intervention of the divine power o God, delivering from disease and its effects, restoring the physical body to normal health.

I need not take time, nor space, to prove there is a need, and a place for it in the world. Every hospital is filled to capacity, every institution caring for physically or mentally ill are having to enlarge their borders to care for the demand on them. Rest homes are full, and the majority of homes are affected in some degree.

Since there is such a tremendous need, and people by the thousands are calling for help and relief, we feel it timely, and perfectly justifiable to bring a simple, clear, Biblical and uncompromising message on this timely and important truth of our Lord concerning His will in caring for the needs of the physical bodies of His people. We now go to the Word of God for God’s message to the sick and afflicted.

Chapter II
The Origin and Cause of Sickness and Disease

1. The Fall Man—As recorded in Genesis the second chapter. There are three things the human race received because of the transgression and fall of our foreparents, Adam and Eve, in sin. These three include (1) Sickness, (2) Mortality, meaning subject to death spiritually, (3) Temporal, or physical death, meaning this present earthly death.

2. Cause of Disease—Knowing the cause of sickness, and disease, will serve to build faith and hope for our possibility in gaining victory. The first cause we will consider is:

a. God afflicts people directly as a punishment or indirectly by permission. For example, and ample proof, study the history of the Children of Israel, and their journey from Egypt to Canaan.

b. The Devil Afflicts—Satan directly brings on sickness and disease, for we read that some “ were oppressed of the Devil.” Acts 10:38. We read again in Luke 13:16, “And ought not this woman, being a daughter of Abraham whom Satan has bound, lo, these eighteen years, be loosed from this bond on the Sabbath day.” It is said of Job, “So went Satan forth from the presence of the Lord, and smote job with sore boils from the sole of his foot unto his crown.” This teaches us there are various afflictions that are a result of the Devil. One may ask, does the Devil heal today? I will answer, by saying, if the Devil has power to afflict he has power to lift that affliction, which would be termed healing by some. Many scriptures teach that the Devil has power in these last clays to do “many signs and wonders.” This will be considered further later in this book.

c. Some Diseases are Hereditary—We inherit weakness and infirmities from our parents or foreparents. It is said, “For I the Lord am a jealous God, visiting the iniquities of the father upon the children unto the third and fourth generation of them that haft me.” Deut. 5:9.

d. There are Physical CausesMany afflictions are from natural causes, such as contagious diseases, which one can get by contact with others who have them.

e. Some people bring on their own sickness and disease through sin. Jesus made a statement, “Sin no more lest a worse thing come upon you.” I John 5: 14. Thereby intimating that his bast sins were the cause of his affliction.

f. Men often bring on their own sickness through their intemperate life. Proof of this is given in Hosea 7:5. “In the day of our king tire princes have made him sick with bottles of wine. He stretched out his hand with the scorners.”

g. Epaphroditus overworked, which brought on sickness that came near causing his death. In the face of the foregoing facts, there is a truth that you may be assured of. If we are sick, regardless of how it came upon us if we submit to God, there is healing for us. May his thought inspire to greater faith.

Chapter III
God’s Will to Heal in the Old Testament

God was the Healer of His people back in the Old Testament. For proof of this we will go to the record of all records, “The Word of God.” The words of David bring to us this fact. “Bless the Lord, O my soul, and all that is within me, bless His holy name. Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all His benefits, who forgiveth all thine iniquities, who healeth all thy diseases.” Psa. 103:1–3. God made provision for healing of His people throughout the Old Testament, as well as the New Testament. His promise to them was, “If thou wilt diligently harken to the voice of the Lord thy God, and wilt give ear to His commandments, and keep all His statutes, I will put none of these diseases upon thee which I have brought upon the Egyptians: for I am the Lord that healeth thee.” Ex. 15:26. In addition to this God said, “And ye shall serve the Lord your God, and He shall bless thy bread, and thy water, and I will take sickness away from the midst of thee.” Ex. 23:25.

God was their healer, for He said, “I will put none of these diseases upon thee, which I have brought upon the Egyptians, for I am the Lord that healeth thee.” Ex. 15:26. “He sent His word and healed them.” Psa. 107:20. When Israel disobeyed they were bitten by the serpents. God commanded Moses to make a fiery serpent, and set it upon a pole that whosoever, when bitten should look upon this serpent and live. Numbers 21:6–9.

There are on record in the Bible many cases where God healed under the Old Testament. Here are some recorded incidents. “So Abraham prayed unto God, and God healed Abimelech, and his wife, and his maidservants, and they bare children.” Gen. 20:17.

It is said of Naaman, “Now Naaman, Captain of the host of the King of Syria was a great man with his master, and honorable … he was also a mighty man of valor, but he was a leper … and he went in and told his Lord saying, thus and thus said the maid that is of the land of Israel. And the King of Syria said, go to, go and I will send a letter unto the King of Israel … and he brought the letter to the King of Israel saying, Now when this is come unto thee, behold, I have therewith sent Naaman my servant to thee that thou mayest recover him of his leprosy. And it came to pass, when the King of Israel had read the letter, that he rent his clothes … and Elisha sent a messenger unto him, saying, Go and wash in Jordan seven times, and thy flesh shall come again to thee, and thou shalt be clean.… Then went he down, and dipped himself seven times in Jordan according to the saying of the man of God, and his flesh came again like unto the flesh of a little child, and he was clean.” 2 Kings 5:1–15.

Another outstanding record is that of Hezekiah. “In those days was Hezekiah sick unto death.” God had told him to set his house in order for he was going to die. Then he turned his face to the wall, called God to record how he had walked before Him, and Hezekiah wept sore. God then began to talk saying, “Thus saith the Lord, the God of David, thy Father, I have heard thy prayer, and I have seen thy tears, behold I will heal thee. On the third day thou shalt go up unto the house of the Lord, and I will add unto thy days fifteen years.” II Kings 20:1–6. David boldly gave his testimony of physical healing. “O Lord, my God, I cried unto Thee, and thou hast healed me.” Psa. 30:2. The account is given where Hezekiah prayed for people and they were healed. “And the Lord harkened to Hezekiah and healed the people.” II Chron. 30:20. The healing was for all who diligently harkened to the voice of the Lord. It was for all who lived under the Old Testament, if they obeyed God’s commands. When Israel came out of Egypt, there was not a feeble person among them. Out of two and one half million, none were sick. From this one can quickly see God was their healer in a wonderful way.

Chapter IV
New Testament Healing

Under the Old Testament God promised that He would make a new covenant. He told what would be included in the New Covenant, and healing for the body was to be among the good things.

The Spirit of God revealed to Isaiah, the prophet, and showed exactly what would happen under the New Testament dispensation. “Then the eyes of the blind shall be opened and the ears of the deaf shall be unstopped. Then shall the lame man leap as an hart, and the tongue of the dumb sing.” Isaiah 35:5–6.

The prophets predicted healing for both soul and body, in the Gospel Covenant. When Jesus came here on earth he brought the very things the prophets foretold. Jesus fulfilled all prophecy about himself. “That it might be fulfilled which was spoken by Esaias the prophet saying, Himself took our infirmities, and bare our sickness.” Matt. 8:17. Many more truths could be brought to support the fact of Christ’s fulfilling all prophecies concerning Himself and His work, but this should be sufficient.

Chapter V
God’s Will to Man in the New Testament

The following are some basic scriptures which should and must be believed strongly for one to experience the reality of the great and complete plan of God. It is desired the reader will believe without hesitancy these scriptures. To believe them guarantees results to the believer. If your faith is weak they will serve to build you up, and help you reach the place of perfect confidence, and place one in the position of receiving faith. We will go to the Word of God which is true and can never he broken.

“Beloved, I wish above all things, that thou mayest prosper, and be in health, even as thy soul prospereth.” III John 2. It is God’s will for one to be in health physically, along with spiritual health of the soul.

Jesus healed all that had need, “And the people when they knew it, followed Him, and He received them and spoke unto them of the Kingdom of God, and healed them that had need of healing.” Luke 9:11. “The power of the Lord was present to heal.” Luke 5:17.

We will continue with more testimony. “There came also a multitude out of the cities round about unto Jerusalem, bringing sick folks, and them which were vexed with unclean spirits, and they were healed Every One.” Acts 5:16. Just think of it: “Every One.” And Jesus went about all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues and preaching the Gospel of the kingdom, and healing all manner of sickness and all manner of disease among the people. And his fame went throughout all Syria and they brought unto Him all sick people that were taken with divers diseases and torments, and those which were possessed with devils, and those which were lunatic, and those that had palsy, and He Healed Them.” Matt. 4:23–24. “And when they had gone over they came into the land of Gennesaret, and when the men of that place had knowledge of Him, they sent out into all that country round about, and brought unto Him all that were diseased, and besought Him that they might only touch the hem of His garment; and many as touched were made perfectly whole. Matt. 14:34–36. Just think about it Perfectly Whole. “… And a great multitude of the people out of all Judea and Jerusalem, and from the sea coast of Tyre and Sidon, which came to hear Him, and to be healed of their diseases: and they that were vexed with unclean spirits; and they were healed and the whole multitude sought to touch Him, for there went virtue out of him, and healed them all.” Luke 6:17–19. “Now when the sun was setting, all they that had any sick with divers diseases brought them unto Him, and He laid His hands on every one of them, and healed them.” Luke 4:40.

Healing was for all, as is clearly seen in these scriptures. Jesus was just as liberal in healing the sick as He was in the forgiveness of sins. In fact there are more cases on record of healing, than there are cases of the forgiveness of sins. Christ never hesitated to heal their sick when they brought them to Him. The scripture still says, “Jesus Christ the same yesterday and today and forever.” Heb. 13:8. It is well always to keep in mind, “Holy men of God spoke as they were moved by the Holy Ghost.”

Jeremiah the prophet gives a timely exhortation. “Take Him and look well to Him” Jer. 39:12. We are to set our eyes upon the Lord. But too often people set their eyes upon and take about everything before they try the Lord. God’s will is for us to take Him first, last, and always. Jesus states: “Healing is the Children’s bread.” “Whosoever will may come.” Rev 22:17. Praise God for this wonderful blessing afforded mankind.

Chapter VI
God’s Plan to have His Will Executed

Jesus has provided a perfect system to carry out His plan of Divine Physical Healing to the needy of the whole world. Let us notice the simplicity and perfection of it.

Jesus possessed and exercised the power of healing as we have formerly noted in Matt. 4:23–24. Christ gave this power to the twelve. Let us notice the record. “And when he had called unto Him his twelve disciples, he gave them power against (over) unclean spirits, to cast them out, and to heal all manner of sickness and all manner of disease.” Matt. 10:1. They exercised that power, “And they went forth, and preached everywhere, the Lord working with them, and confirming the word with signs following.” Mark 16:20.

Christ gave this power to the seventy. The scripture states, “After these things the Lord appointed other seventy also, and sent them two and two before His face into every city and place, whither He Himself would come.” Luke 10:1. His instruction to them was, “And into whatever city ye enter, and they receive you, eat such things as are set before you, and heal the sick that are therein.” Luke 10:8–9. They exercised that power. “The seventy returned again with joy, saying, Lord, even the devils are subject unto us through thy name.” Jesus further stated, “Behold, I give unto you power to tread on serpents, and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy, and nothing shall by any means hurt you.” Luke 10:17–20.

This power was also given to Stephen for the Bible states. “And Stephen, full of faith and power, did great wonders and miracles among the people.” Acts 6:8. It was given to Paul, for the scripture gives this account, “And there sat a certain man at Lystra, impotent in his feet, being a cripple from his mother’s womb, who never had walked. The same heard Paul speak; who steadfastly beholding him, and perceiving that he had faith to be healed, said with a loud voice; Stand upright on thy feet, and he leaped and walked.” Acts 14:8–10. Another account of Paul is given, “And it came to pass, that the father of Publius lay sick of a fever, and of a bloody flux: to whom Paul entered in and prayed and laid his hands on him, and healed him.” Acts 28:8.

This power of healing and miracle working was also given to Philip, “And the people with one accord gave heed unto those things which Philip spake, hearing and seeing the miracles which he did. For unclean spirits crying with loud voice, came out of many that were possessed with them, and many taken with palsies, and that were lame were healed, and there was great joy in that city.” Acts 8:6–8.

It is given to the Elders of God’s Blood-bought, redeemed Church. Instructions what to do are clearly given to all of God’s truly born again children of God in case of physical sickness. Notice carefully the command of God to the sick and afflicted. “Is any among you afflicted? let him pray. Is any merry? let him sing psalms: Is any sick among you? let him call for the elders of the church; and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord, and the prayer of faith shall save the sick, and the Lord shall raise him up, and if he have committed sins they shall be forgiven him.” James 5:13–15.

These words are not given to merely fill space, but to be obeyed by all true Christians. To do other than the foregoing scriptures teach, is to disobey, and dishonor God. Enough power accompanies the word, and will of God, to heal all sicknesses and diseases of the whole world, why look for or resort to the lesser. God’s plan is one of completion, and perfection. Not to rely on or appropriate it in your time of need would mean a tremendous loss. Nothing to lose when you trust fully in God.

The power of healing is one of the permanent gifts in the church. Note with me God’s word: “For to one is given y the Spirit the word of wisdom; to another the word of knowledge by the same Spirit; to another faith by the same Spirit; to another the gifts of healing by the same Spirit.” I Cor. 12:8–9.

This power is also given to us if we believe. All Christians are to be able to pray for the sick, and they be healed. The word of God says, “And these signs shall follow them that believe; In my name shall they cast out devils. They shall speak with new tongues; they shall take up serpents, and if they drink any deadly thing it shall not hurt them: they shall lay hands on the sick and they shall recover.” Mark 16:16–18. The word of God here is very emphatic. The conclusion is forcefully drawn, if we are believers the signs will follow. Jesus made a very inspiring statement when He said, “Verily, verily, I say unto you. He that believeth on me, the works that I do shall he do also, and greater works than these shall he do, because I go unto my Father.” John 14: 12. To me it seems Jesus is not speaking of His followers producing greater quality, but greater quantity. They would be more in abundance, because He could not be every where in fleshly form, but in Spirit, through His church, He would be world wide, making it easy to comprehend greater works being done.

Chapter VII
Divine Healing Did Not Cease with the Apostles

Because the larger part of the professed Christian world denies the fact of healing and claims healing ceased with the Apostles, does not dispose of, nor nullify God or His word to those who believe, nor does it silence the voice of history. Let us first notice some scriptural facts. Divine healing for the body, and good things mentioned in the prophecy of the Gospel were not to cease with Christ and the Apostles. They were to continue as long as the world stands. The Bible in the last commission says, “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost; teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world.” Matt. 28:19–20.

If healings were to cease with the apostles why are so many cases recorded? They are recorded for our benefit. Jesus further confirms this by saying, “And many other signs truly did Jesus in the presence of His disciples, which are not written in this book: But these are written that ye might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that believing ye might have life through His name.” John 20:30–31. If the salvation of the Gospel is for us today, then the healing of the Gospel is for us also.

There is abundant evidence that healing did not cease with the Apostles. We now quote from the following writers:

1. Dr. G. Unborn stated in the third century these words. “Witnesses who are above suspicion leave no room for doubt that the miraculous power of the apostolic age continued to operate at least into the third century.”

2. Clement about l00 A. D. advises those who have received the gifts of healing how to pray for the sick. He states, “For numberless demoniacs throughout the whole world, and in your city, our Christian men exorcising (expelling) in the name of Jesus Christ, who was crucified under Pontius Pilate, have healed, and do heal, rendering helpless and driving the possessing devils out of men, though they could not be cured by all the other exorcists, who used incantations (uttering of magical words) and drugs.”

3. Justian Martyr, about 162 A. D. stated. “There are some among the lunatics who are possessed with devils, who, if the devils were cast out, would be restored in their right mind, I cite you to Luke 8:27–36.”

4. Tertullian between 200 to 300 A. D. speaks of the healing of many.

5. Origin in the same period of time had witnessed to “marvelous power of faith” declaring the name of Jesus can still remove distractions from the minds of men, and expel demons, and also take away diseases.”

6. And other witnesses from the first four centuries, such as Chrysostom and Agustine, all refer to divine healing in distinct testimony with reference to actual incidents.

7. One great preacher, pastor and author who says, “Many heathen amongst us are being healed by Christians from whatever sickness they have, so abundant are miracles in our midst.”

8. During the dark ages, the Waldeneses taught and practiced anointing with oil for divine healing. The early Friends in the day of Fox had many instances of healing. Healing was known among the Wesleys also, and others. In these last days there are hundreds of cases of healing. We could get the testimonies of more healing today than there are cases in the Scriptures. The foregoing parts of history prove beyond doubt that healing did not cease with the Apostles. Look to God, believe it, it is for us today.

Chapter VIII
The Access to Divine Healing

In the preceding chapters we have given you many Scriptures, as a background, or foundation, leading to this important time. Hearing much of God’s truth on the subject of Divine Healing for the body, has no doubt created in every sincere Christian’s heart a hungering, and a desire to be a recipient of this blessing when you are in need of it. It is a fact, and true with many that about all they desire to know is; Is it for me, if so, how can I get it? We have shown from the word of the Lord, it is for every Christian, and God’s will concerning those who are sick and afflicted. We will now go to the road, or access that leads to Divine Healing.

1. Faith is required on the part of those desiring healing. The woman coming to Christ that had an issue of blood for twelve years recorded in Mark 5:25–34 has always been an inspiration on this point. Let us read the account. “And a certain woman, which had an issue of blood twelve years, and had suffered many things of many physicians, and had spent all that she had, and was nothing bettered, but rather grew worse. When she had heard of Jesus, came in the press behind, and touched His garment. For she said, if I may touch but His clothes, I shall be whole. And straightway the fountain of her blood was dried up; and she felt in her body that she was healed of this plague.” Mark 5:25–29.

Five great things this woman did that brought healing:

1. She heard of Jesus. (Immediately she responded.)
2. She believed. (Possessed faith.)
3. She came. (Put forth effort.)
4. She pressed her way to Christ. (Went against opposition.)
5. She touched. (Did not stop until she had fulfilled all, requirements.) The five essential acts on her part brought complete healing instantly. To possess these noble traits means healing to all who possess them.

This woman’s case literally involved pressing through the crowd of people. Today with us, it is spiritual. We have to press through the theories and reasonings of man, the unbelief of some of our supposed-to-be best friends, skepticism of unbelievers, unwise suggestions of those who are counted among those who have faith in God, doubts, criticisms, and all oppressions, and pressure the Devil can level against us. The Devil doesn’t want anyone to be healed.

1. Job had comforters, and worldly-wise wisdom offered him in abundance to side track him. Much of it came from those nearest and dearest to him. But he conquered by remaining unmoved and declaring, “Though thou slay me, yet will I trust.” This kind of consecration and decision will bring results. Momentarily, it appeared Job had lost all, and he did from the literal point of view, but the Lord knows when to change the tide, give it all back, and more. Dear readers, this kind of trust will bring the promised results.

2. Some are healed through the faith of others. For example we will go to the incident of the healing of the nobleman’s son, who was sick unto death. Words of the nobleman—“The Nobleman saith unto Him, Sir, come down ere my child die. Jesus saith unto him, Go thy way: thy son liveth. And the man believed the word that Jesus had spoken unto him, and he went his way. And as he was now going down, his servants met him, and told him, saying, thy Son liveth. Then inquired he of them the hour when he began to amend and they said unto him, Yesterday at the seventh hour the fever left him. So the father knew that it was the same hour, in the which Jesus said unto him, Thy son liveth: and himself believed, and his whole house.” John 4:49–53. More fathers are needed that have this kind of faith. He believed when he first heard the words of Jesus. This father had faith for his son.

3. Another faith building example is found in the healing of the Centurion’s servant. “And when Jesus was entered into Capernaum, there came unto him a centurion, beseeching him, and saying, Lord, my servant lieth at home sick of the palsy, grievously tormented. And Jesus said unto him, I will come and heal him. The centurion answered, and said, Lord, I am not worthy that thou shouldest come under my roof; but speak the word only, and my servant shall be healed.… And Jesus said unto the centurion, Go thy way, and as thou hast believed, so be it done unto thee. And his servant was healed in the self-same hour.” Matt. 8:5–8, 13. May God grant such faith may be imbedded in every Christian’s heart.

4. Those who pray must have faith. Jesus said, “All things, whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer, believing, ye shall receive.” Matt. 21:22.

5. Must believe that God rewards—”But without faith it is impossible to please Him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek Him.” Heb. 11:6.

6. Must have a settled mind. Note the word of God. “But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering: for he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea, driven with the wind and tossed. For let not that man think that he shall receive anything of the Lord. A double-minded man is unstable in all his ways.” James 1:6–8. To get it settled to trust God is very necessary to receive healing. We are still on the road that leads to healing.

7. Must have confidence in God. This is so important. Note the word of God with care. “And this is the confidence that we have in Him, that, if we ask any thing according to his will, he heareth us: and if we know that he hear us, whatsoever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we desired of him.” I John 5:14–15. Confidence is fundamental, and rewarding; lack of it, is tragical. The fact of its being God’s will to heal, should guarantee confidence in every Christian’s heart. It is one of the “must” requirements of the Bible.

8. Must believe that all things are possible to him that believeth. “Jesus saith unto him, if thou canst believe, all things are possible to him that believeth.” Mark 9:23. What a scope this scripture covers, “All things.” The Christian who trusts in God, need not fear the outcome. The death and resurrection of Christ guarantees victory and healing to the trusting one.

9. How we know he will answer. The Bible gives the unquestionable assurance. “And whatsoever we ask, we receive of him, because we keep his commandments, and do those things that are pleasing in his sight.” I John 3:22. There is a keeping, and a doing of the commandments of the Lord required on our part.

10. Some great words of our Lord that mean much,—“And Jesus answering saith unto them, Have faith in God. For verily I say unto you, that whosoever shall say unto this mountain, Be thou removed, and he thou cast into the sea; and shall not doubt in his heart, but shall believe that those things which he saith shall come to pass: he shall have whatsoever he saith. Therefore I say unto you, What things soever ye desire, when ye pray believe that ye receive them, and ye shall have them.” Mark 11:22–24. This mountain Jesus referred to here, does not mean a literal, earthly mountain, but has reference to those spiritual, and physical afflictions or battles we encounter here in this life. Many suffer needless pain, agony, and misery because they do not come to Jesus in faith, believing, doubting not. Healing and victory is your heaven-bought heritage. Do not be satisfied until you get it. “Believe and thou shalt see the glory of God.”

We must have faith, doubt not, but believe, that God will do what he said. It is very necessary that we mix much believing in our praying if we want results. Oh, that man would believe God!

It is necessary to believe God strong enough that you know His attitude toward His promises never changes. God says, “I am the Lord; I change not.” The Bible still teaches “For all the promises of God in him are yea, and in him Amen, unto the glory of God by us” (II Cor. 1:20) meaning with God it has always been yes. God will always answer the prayer you pray, or give you something better.

A beautiful picture is given us by John the Revelator, in the book of Revelation 22:1–2. “And He showed me a pure river of water of life, (Salvation) clear as crystal, proceeding out of the throne of God and of the Lamb. In the midst of the street of it, and on either side of the river, was there the tree of life, (Christ), which bare twelve manner of fruits, (every month in the year) and yielded her fruit every month: and the leaves of the tree were for the healing of the nations.” Rev. 22:1–3.

Here we have a tree on either side of the river. This tree is a symbol of Christ. The leaves of this tree stand as a symbol of God’s promises. These promises of God are for the Healing—spiritually and physically—of the nations, meaning all people.

We are told the Bible contains more than 32,000 promises of which, we would feel safe in saying, the least one possesses enough power to heal the most severe case of sickness, whether it be soul sickness or physical sickness. All promises contain the limitless backing of all the great power of God. None will, or can fail.

You cannot number the leaves of a tree, neither can you number the many ways the Lord has of caring for His people. “His ways are past finding out.” I have already given you enough scriptures and promises to heal all manner of sickness and disease but this is not all, we have only showed you the access, or way to healing. We will now go to some very important truth, the main body of this glorious teaching. As the study further may we more than ever, if possible, take every word of the Bible given to mean exactly what it says, and endeavor to practice it to the letter its every day living.

Chapter IX
How to be Healed

1. Must believe in healing. The Word of God says, “All things are possible to him that believeth.” Jesus could not do many wonderful works at one place because of unbelief. Unbelief nullifies, and kills the flow of the power of God.

2. It is very necessary that you believe healing is for you. “Beloved, I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in health, even as thy soul prospereth.” III John 2. It is easy to believe God has power, and can heal if He wishes, but believing it is for you now is a different, and very important thing. Any one can say, God can; but it takes real faith to say, “I am healed now.” Jesus says, “Healing is the children’s bread.” If you are a Christian, you are one of His children, so freely ask for this blessing when needed. He is more willing to give than we arc to receive.

3. Another requirement is “Abiding in God.” Jesus speaking to all Christians states: “If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you.” St. John 15:7. This word “Abide” is a powerful word, and is far reaching. Abide means not only get in Christ, but constantly remain there, in vital touch, and fellowship with Him. This text gives a strong promise with great results. “Ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you.” The word of God is forever settled in heaven, and cannot be broken.

4. A very, very important requirement is “Unmixed Faith.” Jesus forcefully states. “If ye have faith as a grain of mustard seed ye shall say unto this mountain, remove hence to yonder place; and it shall remove; and nothing shall he impossible to you.” Matt. 17:20. This scripture is not intended to teach quantity of faith, but rather the quality of faith. Quality of faith, is what brings results.

We have here the great, and highly important lesson of the power of unmixed faith. There are no boundaries, or limitations to faith where it is unmixed. In fact it will not mix with anything foreign to itself, any more than gasoline will mix with water. Jesus likened pure faith to mustard seed, meaning mustard will remain mustard, and will never mix, likewise, pure faith will never mix with any thing contrary to the plan of God. This point alone reveals the reason for so many unanswered prayers today. Faith possesses all that is required. To attempt to mix it, is to render it ineffective and powerless, which eventually causes death. It is the most powerful thing you possess, yet is so easily short-circuited. Anything partaken of, or practiced, that will hinder, or kill faith, should be avoided with utmost care, and caution.

Some think the way of God is foolish, but if you want the blessing of salvation, and healing, you must come God’s way and fulfill His requirements. It will work and bring results when adhered to. When you prove to the Lord you are taking Him for your all, He will in turn verify His promises in the fullest to you.

5. What to do when afflicted. “Is any among you afflicted? let him pray.” James 5:13. If you do not get the victory, or the needed results, then God has further instructions.

6. What to do in case of sickness. “Is any sick among you? let him call for the Elders of the Church.” James 5:14. These scriptures must be obeyed by all Christians if God is pleased.

7. What the elders must do. “Let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord; and the prayer of faith shall save the sick, and the Lord shall raise him up: and if he have committed sins, they shall be forgiven him.” James 5:14–15. If these texts are obeyed, God promises to save from all sin, and raise the body up to normal health. Herein is a complete work, and needs no assistance, or adding to. To attempt such would hinder, or nullify the working of the great power of God.

8. What to do in case no elders are near. Hear the words of Jesus, “Again I say unto you, that if two of you shall agree on earth as touching anything that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of my Father which is in heaven. For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them.” Matt. 18:19–20.

9. A question that may arise here is, if there is no one near me, what shall I do? Jesus has an answer for this also. Here it is, “All things are possible to him that believeth.” Mark 9:23. Provisions are made by the Lord, where you can be healed any, and all times if you are a believer. “If thou canst believe, all things are possible to him that believeth.” This should be enough for everyone.

10. Earnestness is required. (Examples) We read that blind Bartimaeus could not be quieted until he had his sight. “And when he heard that it was Jesus of Nazareth, he began to cry out, and say, Jesus, thou Son of David, have mercy on me. And many charged him that he should hold his peace; but he cried the more a great deal.” Jesus called him to Himself, and said unto him, “Go thy way; thy faith hath made thee whole. And immediately he received his sight, and followed Jesus in the way. Mark 10:46–52. We read of two blind men that were insistent. Jesus said unto them: “According to your faith, be it unto you.” Matt. 9:29.

Jesus taught importunity, Luke 18:1–8. Many do not receive because they give up too easily. Notice with much care the will of God to those in need, “Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.” Matt. 7:7. Sometimes it takes going a little farther, “And He went a little farther, and fell on His face, and prayed.” The outcome was the answer, “Not my will, but thine be done.” Matt 26:39. This opened the way for God to be glorified. The point of complete surrender is victory.

Chapter X
Works That Accompany Faith for Healing

1. Where there are faults, confess them. James 5:16. Many do not receive healing because they are unwilling to comply with the Word of God here.

2. The Centurion—He came to Jesus, Matt. 8:5–10. This one put forth effort to get healing.

3. The man with the withered hand stretched it forth. Matt. 12:10. He believed strong enough to obey.

4. The lame man—“He looked, and arose.” Acts 3:4–6. This one manifested belief by action. When we believe God strong enough to act, He will be present to supply the need.

5. The woman with issue of blood, touched His garment. Mark 5:27. Her faith was strong enough to compel her to put forth effort, cast aside all hindrances, and touch His garment with the touch of faith that brought healing to her body.

6. Ten lepers showed themselves to the priests. Luke 17: 11–19. God has a part, and man has a part, it is man’s part to believe and trust and God’s part to heal.

Chapter XI
Hindrances to Healing

In this chapter a number of the more common hindrances will be considered.

1. Some are hindered from being healed because they are not in earnest. Jesus taught, “The kingdom of heaven suffereth violence, and the violent take it by force.” Matt. 11:12. This teaches us that the promises of God become a reality to us, by our pressing with unwavering faith. A halfhearted way will not get us anywhere. If we ever get saved, or healed, it will be because we are in earnest.

2. Careless ways, or unjudged, or unclassified sins. The little so-called “No harms” are registering alarmingly with unanswered prayers. Many are stretching their consciences over much today, resulting in a dry, formal Christian life, and stacks of unanswered prayers. This is alarming and should awaken those in guilt. In God’s sight, custom and time does not rate sin. Paul gives the required spiritual condition that guarantees answered prayer. “For behold this self same thing, that ye sorrowed after a godly sort, what carefulness it wrought in you. Yea what clearing of yourselves, yea, what indignation, yea, what fear, yea, what vehement desire, yea, what zeal, yea, what revenge! In all things ye have approved yourselves to be clear in this matter.” II Cor. 7:11.

3. A condemning heart. “Beloved, if our heart condemn us not, then have we confidence toward God. And whatsoever we ask, we receive of Him, because we keep His commandments, and do those things that are pleasing in His sight.” I John 3:21–22. Whatsoever condemns the conscience hinders prayer. When condemnation is present, until it is reckoned with, pleading and wrestling are in vain. Walking behind light brings condemnation. Where condemnation is found, lack of faith and confidence will be found. This gives the reason why so many are not trusting God.

4. An unforgiving spirit, or wrong attitudes. Forgiveness is required. “And when ye stand praying, forgive, if ye have ought against any; that your Father also which is in heaven may forgive you your trespasses. Mark 11:25. “Blessed is the man unto whom the Lord imputeth not iniquity (sin), and in whose spirit there is no guile.” Psalm 32:2. “Man looketh on the outward appearance, but the Lord looketh on the heart.” I Sam. 16:7. Condition of heart, and attitude will govern answers to prayer.

5. Some are wanting to get healed but are not willing to give up their sins. But the Bible still emphatically states. “If I regard iniquity in my heart the Lord will not hear me.” Psalm 66:18. If prayer is answered, sin must be disposed of.

6. Selfishness—“Ye ask, and receive not, because ye ask amiss, that ye may consume it upon your lusts.” James 4:3. Some desire healing that they may work harder for themselves, never having time to do service for the Lord. It is a sin to have no time for God, or His work. Some desire healing for the purpose of increasing their own pleasure. If we would ask more that we might give more, more prayers would be answered. Selfishness is robbing many a life of victory, power, and answered prayers. In order to receive healing we must want to live, and desire it to the glory of God.

7. Wavering—Possessing doubt, supposing that God will permit one to ask in vain, or questioning the outcome. To waver is not the same as to disbelieve, but it includes the essential characteristics of unbelief. Faith says, yes, and unbelief, no. To waver is a mixture of yes and no. The Bible states clearly, “But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering: for he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea driven with the wind and tossed. For let not that man think that he shall receive anything of the Lord.” James 1:6–7. Wavering is so near unbelief, and unbelief is the very opposite of faith, and is sin. “Without faith it is impossible to please God.” Heb. 11:6. Wavering is generally a symptom of something deeper, usually one of four things.
a. A condemning heart.
b. An unforgiving spirit.
c. A selfish motive.
d. Some lack in life.

It is impossible to offer a prayer of faith if any of these things are present. God reveals His will to one who walks before Him as the Bible teaches, and thus he enables him to “Ask in faith nothing wavering.” Where there is no such assurance it is time for an examination, and to listen to the Lord. It means much to keep where the Lord can work His complete will through us. If you are wavering in your spiritual life, and faith, take note, there is cause for alarm.

8. Faults are hindrances to healing—“Confess them.” Pray for one another.

9. Doubts will keep an individual from receiving healing. Matt. 21:21.

10. Unbelief will keep us from getting the desires of our hearts. “He staggered not at the promise of God through unbelief; but was strong in faith giving glory to God.” Romans 4:20.

11. Listening to the Devil’s doubts and discouragements will keep us from being healed. Do not believe the Devil when he tells you it is not God’s will to heal you now. It is the will of the Lord to heal.

12. Some times God cannot heal because the individual thinks it is time to die. There are many other reasons, but God can give faith sufficient to surmount all.

Chapter XII
The Voice of Faith

1. “As thy days, so shall thy strength be.” Deut. 33:25. God has promised health according to age, to all who trust Him, as long as life shall last.

2. “God cares for His own.” Isa. 40:3.

3. “Underneath are the everlasting arms.” Deut. 33:27.

4. “He shall thrust out the enemy from before thee.” Deut. 33:27.

5. “He will never suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able.” I Cor. 10:13.

6. “He is a very present help in trouble.” Ps. 46:1.

7. He “will never leave thee nor forsake thee.” Heb. 13:5.

8. He will fight for us. Ex. 14:14.

9. He gives us power over the Devil. I John 4:4.

10. Everything that happens to us is for our good and God’s glory. Rom. 8:28.

11. He will reward faith and trust.

12. He giveth power to the faint. Isa. 40:29.

13. God is our refuge and strength. Psalm 46:1.

14. He “will come with strong hand, and His arm shall rule.” Isa. 40:10.

15. He will bring His reward with Him. Isa. 40:10; Isa. 62:11.

16. “Your labor is not in vain in the Lord.” I Cor. 15:58.

17. “Greater is He that is within you, than he that is in the world.” I John 4:4.

18. “If God be for us, who can be against us.” Rom. 8:31.

19. “I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.” Phil. 4:13.

20. If faithful, we will receive the eternal reward some day. Rev. 2:10.

Chapter XIII
Concluding Remarks

1. “Whosoever will, may come.” Rev. 22:17.

2. “He is no respecter of persons.” Acts 10:34.

3. Healing is for all—“Is any among you sick.” James 5:14.

4. “Jesus Christ the same yesterday, today and forever.” Heb. 13:8.

5. Sinners can be saved, and healed at the same time.

6. Plunge into the fountain today.

May the Lord richly bless this wonderful truth on DIVINE PHYSICAL HEALING to the present and eternal good of all.

Yours prayerfully,
Lawrence J. Chesnut.

[ The End ]