Sickness Cartoons and Pain Cartoons for our sick & hurting world

All things 'ILL' in the Back Pew

SICK DAYS: Back in my working days.. I would sometimes say with a smile.. "I never met a sick day I didn't like." And let's be real, no one wants to waste a sick day with strep throat, or a 102 fever. 

PANDEMIC DAYS: 
In 2020, we decided to up the ante on being cautious due to the threat of COVID-19. Click here for COVID-19 aka Corona Virus Comments and Cartoons

The Bible addresses sickness in various ways, offering perspectives on its causes, purposes, and responses to it, often emphasizing faith, healing, and trust in God. Below is a concise overview based on key themes and passages, drawing from both the Old and New Testaments:

1. Sickness as a Human Condition

The Bible acknowledges sickness as part of the fallen human condition resulting from sin entering the world (Genesis 3). While not always directly caused by personal sin, illness is seen as a consequence of living in a broken world. For example:

  • Romans 8:22-23 describes creation and humanity "groaning" under the weight of sin, awaiting redemption, implying that physical ailments are part of this reality.

2. Sickness and Sin

In some instances, the Bible connects sickness to sin, though not universally. Jesus clarifies this distinction:

  • John 9:1-3: When asked if a man’s blindness was due to his or his parents’ sin, Jesus responds, “Neither this man nor his parents sinned, but this happened so that the works of God might be displayed in him.” This suggests sickness can serve a divine purpose beyond punishment.

  • Psalm 38:3-5: David laments that his health suffers due to his sin, showing a possible link in specific cases.

3. God as Healer

The Bible frequently presents God as the ultimate source of healing:

  • Exodus 15:26: God declares, “I am the Lord, your healer,” promising health to those who follow His commands.

  • Psalm 30:2: “Lord my God, I called to you for help, and you healed me.”

  • Jesus’ ministry in the New Testament emphasizes healing as a sign of God’s kingdom, as seen in passages like Matthew 4:23 and Luke 4:40, where He heals many diseases.

4. Faith and Prayer in Sickness

The Bible encourages believers to seek God in times of illness through prayer and faith:

  • James 5:14-15: “Is anyone among you sick? Let them call the elders of the church to pray over them and anoint them with oil in the name of the Lord. And the prayer offered in faith will make the sick person well.”

  • Philippians 4:6-7: Believers are urged to pray about all concerns, including sickness, trusting God for peace.

5. Suffering and God’s Purpose

Sickness is sometimes portrayed as a means for spiritual growth, testing faith, or glorifying God:

  • Job 2:7-10: Job suffers physical ailments yet remains faithful, showing that sickness can test and refine faith.

  • 2 Corinthians 12:7-10: Paul describes a “thorn in the flesh” (possibly a physical ailment) that God allows to keep him humble, teaching that God’s grace is sufficient in weakness.

6. Compassion and Care for the Sick

The Bible calls believers to care for the sick, reflecting God’s love:

  • Matthew 25:36: Jesus commends those who visit and care for the sick, equating it to serving Him.

  • Luke 10:30-37: The parable of the Good Samaritan illustrates the duty to help those suffering, including physically.

7. Ultimate Healing in Eternity

The Bible points to a future where sickness will be eradicated:

  • Revelation 21:4: In the new heaven and new earth, “He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain.”

Summary

The Bible views sickness as a reality of a fallen world, sometimes linked to sin but often serving a broader divine purpose, such as displaying God’s power or fostering spiritual growth. It encourages prayer, faith, and seeking God for healing while emphasizing compassion for the sick. Ultimately, it offers hope in God’s power to heal, both in this life and fully in eternity.