Editorial March 21, 2022 Issue

Is willpower our healing power?

Tony Lobl

Look up the meaning of willpower, and you’d think it’s a must-have. Synonyms include self-command, self-containment, and self-mastery.

It’s not surprising, then, that many see willpower as a key ally in regaining health. People are described as “fighting disease” in medical settings or exercising “mind over matter” in many alternative approaches.

That’s not how Jesus described his healing practice. His record of healing remains unmatched, yet he said, “I can of mine own self do nothing: . . . I seek not mine own will, but the will of the Father which hath sent me” (John 5:30).

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