A greater miracle

In the latest Conversation Magazine, Lydia Maingi looks at the controversial ministry of Dr Owuor. One of the feature of his rallies is the presence of 'signs and wonders' and particularly healing miracles.

However, miracles, healings and prophecies can all turn out to be worthless (Matt. 7:22; 1 Cor. 13:1-3) or demonic (Mat. 24:24 Rev. 13:12-15; 16:3-14).

As John Piper and many others have pointed out, there is one thing that cannot be faked – rejoicing in Christ in the midst of suffering. Peace beyond all human understanding. A miracle that can only be produced by the Spirit of God.

When Paul prayed for his suffering to be removed God did a greater miracle – sufficient grace – boasting in weakness (2 Cor. 12). When the apostles were given 39 lashes (Acts 5:40) and they went off ‘rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer dishonour for the Name’ (Acts 5:41) was that not a greater miracle than the healing of the lame man in Acts 3?

Joni Eareckson Tada – confined to a wheelchair after a diving accident as a young woman – said, “God didn’t heal me physically – he did a greater miracle – he kept me in a wheelchair and put a smile on my face.”

When I hear someone testifying to how Christ has brought them to a place of complete assurance and contentment in Him, how he is their joy in the midst of continuing pain or singleness or childlessness – then I praise God for a far greater miracle than a testimony of healing or marriage or conception.

(You can hear Joni speaking on suffering here.)

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