Etymologically, Gilead is derived from the Hebrew word; which means ‘heap of stones of testimony.’ In the Bible, ‘Gilead’ means hill of testimony or mound of witness. Geographically, it is a fertile but mountainous region, located on the eastern part of River Jordan, now situated in Jordan. Balm is a sweet-smelling oil that is obtained from some tropical trees and used to make creams that heal wounds or reduce pain.
The Balm of Gilead has a deeper symbolic meaning in the scripture. God shows Israel that they had turned to a temporary healing solution, but they had far deeper spiritual cuts that needed ultimate healing. They, therefore, needed the true physician, Jesus Christ, for their healing and recovery. Jeremiah 8:22 says “Is there no balm in Gilead, Is there no physician there? Why then is there no recovery for the health of the daughter of my people?” Obviously, there were balms and physicians in Gilead. Yet, the ‘ailment’ of the people in the city of Gilead persisted. Prophet Jeremiah was apparently worried about the spiritual depravity of Israel. He was actually weeping over their sorry state, especially, the godless state of Judah. Nowadays, the truth is that many people are afflicted, oppressed and tormented by the devil. Unfortunately, the affected people are spiritually blind to the source or cause of the affliction and thereby not adopting the proper remedy. May the eyes of our understanding be enlightened in the mighty name of Jesus Christ. A lot of people are expecting relief from pain, healing from sickness and testimony from tests and trials of life. The good news is that God is always available to rub His balm upon you and the situation you are passing through. “Behold, I will bring it health and healing; I will heal them and reveal to them the abundance of peace and truth” (Jeremiah 33:6). However, you need to work with and abide in Him by faith, to receive the healing and help God is bringing to you. He will then reveal to you divine peace and truth in abundance. Let your heart stay focused on God, if you want to receive from Him. Distraction is a strategy of the devil to rob people of their blessings. Friend, always incline your heart to God with the expectation of His manifestation.
Do you want God to rub upon you His balm of healing? Holiness or righteousness is very key to accessing the Balm of Gilead. Turn to God today, obey Him and do according to His will. “Behold, the Lord’s hand is not shortened, that it cannot save; … but your iniquities have separated you from your God …” (Isaiah 59:1-2). God bless you richly. SHALOM
