Jeremiah 8 vs. 22 (NIV)
Is there no balm in Gilead? Is there no physician there? Why then is there no healing for the wound of my people?
There is nothing sadder in life than to see something wasted. We have all seen athletes with exceptional talent sidelined because they have not used the same amount of diligence in mastering their weaknesses as they have in mastering their athletic ability. We have witnessed those who come from an excellent family pedigree, refuse to treat with respect the wealth of resources that those who came before them made great sacrifices for, only to squander it away in foolishness.
So, it was when Jeremiah spoke these words, he spoke them with great pain. While it holds significant spiritual meaning, for he had watched his people suffer while being held captive by foreign people and not falling back upon the teaching that carried with them the keys to freedom.
This text also is compared to physical maladies and how unnecessary it was since this group of people were very successful in the balm trade. Why be sick if you have in your possession the cure?
Most of us know what it is that ails us and why, many illnesses are linked and tied to our choice of lifestyle, and diet. Therefore, often when we sit in a state of sickness, we have within our reach the answers, for we do not sit in a place of ignorance.
The balm is extracted from the balsam tree; it is a fragrant herb and can be used for many things.
- Balm of Gilead can be used as a topical ointment to treat inflamed areas of the skin such as sunburns, arthritic flare-ups, and eczema.
- Balm of Gilead has expectorant qualities, so when rubbed on the chest can aid as a decongestant.
- Balm of Gilead has a soothing effect on stomach conditions.
- Balm of Gilead has antiseptic qualities, so it can be used to clean wounds.
Where is your balm, what is keeping you from utilizing the healing remedies of knowledge to make a change? Aren’t you tired of feeling sick? May you consider your condition, and have the strength to avail yourself of the necessary tools to be a better you.
