Question:
Hello Pastor Godwin, I’ve been told by some people that going to the doctor or using medicine shows weak faith. Is that true? Shouldn’t we rely only on divine healing if we believe in miracles?
— David R, Bangalore

Answer:
Hi David, that’s a sincere and important question. The idea that taking medicine or consulting a doctor shows weak faith is not only unbiblical — it can be spiritually and practically harmful.

In Scripture, God often used both supernatural means and natural processes for healing. For instance, when King Hezekiah was sick, the prophet Isaiah instructed that a fig poultice be applied to his boil as part of his healing (Isaiah 38:21). That was medical care — not a contradiction of faith.

The Bible also says:
“Luke, the beloved physician, sends you his greetings…” — Colossians 4:14 (AMP).
Luke wasn’t rebuked for being a doctor. His role was respected, and his contribution was valued.

Faith is not denying reality — it is trusting God within reality. The Hebrew word for “healing” in Exodus 15:26 — “rapha” (רָפָא) — means to restore, and can include physical, spiritual, and emotional restoration. Whether God heals instantly, gradually, or through medical means, it is still His healing.

Taking medicine or seeking medical help doesn’t cancel your faith. The Greek word “pistis” (πίστις) for faith means trust or persuasion — not superstition. Faith is active trust in God’s will, not passive avoidance of common sense.

We honour God both when we pray and when we act wisely. Trusting the Lord doesn’t exclude using what He’s provided through medical science.

So no, seeing a doctor doesn’t mean you lack faith. It may just mean you’re using faith with wisdom.

Hope this helps clarify it.

In Christ,
Godwin