It is no small mercy that at last doors have opened and physicians will see her. Give thanks to God not only for a hoped-for recovery, but for even this step. For often He permits a long wait, that our earnestness may be proved, and that we might learn to cling to Him alone. Yet do not think that prayer alone is enough, while you yourself remain idle in spiritual things.
If we sleep, the prayers of others will profit us nothing; if we wake, we shall still have need of them. For even Paul did not say, “What need have I of prayer?” How much more then do we need it, who are so far below him? So continue your supplications with all eagerness, but let her also herself, if she is able, and you who love her, give heed to the soul’s healing no less than the body’s. For sometimes the body lies low, and the soul rises up in faith and thanksgiving, and that is a greater miracle.
If He delays full healing, it is not cruelty but a medicine; He would show the devil that we serve Him not for what He gives, but because He is Lord. When we bear the trial nobly, then He restores health, or bestows something better still. Do not then make your prayer a demand, but a cry for mercy, like those blind men who called out and would not be silent. Lay hold of the hem of His garment with humility, and say, “Only speak the word, and she shall be healed.” But add always, “Yet not as I will, but as Thou wilt.” For the true healing is to see the light of Christ, which shines even in the darkness of pain, and to learn that His will and the Father’s are one, always working for our eternal good.
So go forth to these appointments, having first made God propitious by prayer and supplication. Whether she recovers or not, if you have thanked Him beforehand, you will not be put to shame. The boat may be lifted on the waves, but it will not sink if He is aboard.