Searching for the Silver Lining By Abby Kelly
“ … for I am the Lord, who heals you.” Exodus 15:26b
Are you still searching for the silver lining?
It's an old saying; an expression of hope that good can come from bad. As Christians, our faith in the God should buoy us up on hope, no matter the bitterness of our circumstance.
Recently, the Holy Spirit gave me a fresh look at a familiar name of God. Jehovah Rapha is simply defined as: The Lord Your Healer. However, a close look at the first time this name was used, gives us a deeper understanding of its meaning.
When the Israelites were three days into their journey away from Egypt and slavery, they found themselves in a desert place called Marah. Desperate with thirst, they quickly tried to refresh themselves with water, but it was so bitter they could not drink it. Immediately, they began to complain. Moses turned to God. He cried out with frustration, no doubt thirst, and helplessness. God showed Moses a piece of wood and instructed him to throw it into the water and it would become drinkable. Moses obeyed; God kept His word.
In the wake of this miracle, God told the people to obey Him always, keep His commands and pay attention to Him. If they did so, He would protect them from disease. Then He said: “for I am the Lord, who heals you.” The word for “healer” is rapha. The meaning of rapha implies the remover of bitterness.
Are you still searching for the silver lining—the sweetness hidden behind the bitterness of painful circumstance? Turn to Jehova Rapha.
Abby Kelly is the author a brand new Bible study on spiritual maturity entitled: Beyond Belief. Find her published books, articles and contact information HERE. | 
