by Lydia Floren
I am a Family Medicine doctor, and over the years that I have practiced medicine, I have learned that often the most effective remedy for an illness is not the kind you pick up at a pharmacy.
Unusual Prescriptions
For example, a patient may come in with a cold. I can, and do, recommend certain medicines that might help to relieve symptoms, but the most important advice I can give – a prescription if you will – is rest. With most sicknesses, especially viral ones, rest is essential to fast and complete healing. Here are some other unusual “prescriptions” I might write:
- A medical excuse for a few days off work.
- A book to read. A couple of my favorites are Boundaries (difficult relationships), or Driven to Distraction (ADD).
- Regular time with a positive encouraging friend.
A prescription for Peace
In Philippians 4, Paul outlines, what I like to call, a Prescription for Peace:
RX for Peace:
- Celebrate God’s goodness. Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Phil 4:4
- Be kind, remembering that God is with you. Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Phil 4:5
- Pray from a thankful heart. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Phil 4:6-7
- Focus on the positive. And now, dear brothers and sisters, one final thing. Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise. Phil 4:8
- Practice. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you. Phil 4:9
One of your prescription: regular time with an encouraging positive friend.
Recently I was invited for a 2 day beach outing with a girl friend who lived on my street. . I knew she was a believer in Christ but we went to different churches and had different friends. I didn’t know we had different interests…. I like outdoor activities and she liked shopping. Neither did I know that we had different views of scriptures. She was very negative and critical about my dress, hair style and make-up. We had no comment ground. I came home from what was to be “rest” exhausted and depressed.
My husband surprised me with a dozen peach roses and hugs and kisses. I was miserable. I prayed for peace and talk to Jesus .I read your blog and studied the verses . Restoration and renewal came! Thank you Lord. Yes! Make sure you have a positive encouraging friend to talk with …don’t just settle for a trip to the beach with anyone… it’s better to go alone …spend time with your true positive encouraging friend Jesus !
So true. Thanks for sharing this! LF
Lydia,
Am a little anxious lately due to arthritis in an ankle. I’m looking at ankle replacement surgery and the outcomes posted online are not encouraging. Looking at a major lifestyle change etc. Your post today was an encouragement to me and a reminder that all this “stuff” is temporary and God will love me even if I’m stuck in a chair for the rest of my life. I don’t have to “do” anything to earn his love but be obedient and love him in whatever circumstances I find myself. Just wanted you to know I appreciated the encouraging words. May God Bless you!
It’s all a matter of perspective, isn’t it? You and Terry have taught us that! I’ll be praying. Blessings!