As we wrap up our discussion on living in the reality that our body is a gift, I want to leave you with one final thought: forgiveness always precedes miracles. 

Years ago, I was studying miraculous manifestations of supernatural power, and I had a revelation: whenever you see the Lord move in a mighty way within the Scriptures, that move is nearly always preceded by an act of forgiveness. Somehow, letting go of an offense opens up the gates of God’s power!

Later on, as I was preparing to a give a sermon on miracles, I heard the Holy Spirit say to me, “Bobby, tell them to forgive their bodies.” Although it sounded strange to me at first, I spoke that word in obedience, and the response was overwhelmingly positive. I believe this is because there are a lot of people harboring unforgiveness towards their flesh without even realizing it. In the same way we might have resentment toward an individual in our lives who hurts us, many of us are angry at our bodies because they haven’t lived up to our expectations or done what we want them to do. 

Friend, just like I said to the congregation that day, I say to you again today: forgive your body. Forgive it for not doing all the things you wish it would do and for not always feeling the way you want it to feel. Then, thank the Lord for the earthly tent He’s given you, recognizing that it’s a gift to carry your soul through this life. You won’t have it forever because one day you’ll have a brand new resurrected version, which will be glorious. Until then, focus on loving and appreciating the body you have, and ask the Lord to do something great in and through it!