Devoting Our Emotional Wholeness to God | Pastor Paula White-Cain | City of Destiny
Let’s explore the importance of dedicating our emotional well-being to God, drawing from John 5:1-9. In this passage, we learn about a significant event that took place in Jerusalem. Jesus visited a pool called Bethesda, located near the Sheep Gate. This pool was surrounded by five porches, symbolizing grace, and was frequented by a large number of people who were sick, blind, lame, or paralyzed. They were waiting for the water to be stirred, as it was believed that an angel would occasionally disturb the water, healing whoever was the first to step in.
Among those waiting was a man who had been suffering from an infirmity for 38 years. Imagine waiting that long, feeling helpless and weary. Some of you may feel the same way right now, wondering when God will move in your life. When will your circumstances change? When will your health, relationships, or finances be restored? Like this man, we often wait for God’s intervention, but Jesus sees our struggles and offers healing.
In the story, Jesus approached the man and asked, “Will you be made whole?” This question holds great significance. Wholeness refers to being complete, without breakdowns or fragmentation—an undamaged state. It is not only about physical healing but emotional and spiritual restoration. Wholeness comes from being healthy and undivided, aligned inside and out, just like integrity.
When the man expressed his frustration, saying he had no one to help him into the pool, Jesus replied, “Rise, take up your bed, and walk.” With these words, Jesus instructed him to overcome what had been controlling him for so long. God is calling us to do the same: to rise above our limitations and walk in His power.
To be whole is to be healthy—emotionally, physically, and spiritually. In fact, studies show that 89% of diseases are linked to stress and emotional struggles. If we are emotionally fragmented—filled with anxiety, fear, or self-doubt—it can take a toll on our physical health. Scripture tells us, “As a man thinks, so is he,” emphasizing the importance of emotional wholeness. If we cannot find peace within ourselves, trust God, or let go of the need to control everything, it becomes harder to experience true healing.
Wholeness is also linked to increase. The root of the word “whole” suggests growth and progress. As we grow in God’s Word, spiritual maturity, and transformation, we move closer to wholeness. If we are whole, we will naturally increase. However, if we are fragmented, we stagnate and decrease. The journey to wholeness requires applying God’s Word, uprooting negative patterns, and embracing His transformative work in our lives.
In summary, God is calling us to be made whole—not just physically, but emotionally and spiritually. Wholeness leads to health, growth, and an increased capacity to fulfill God’s purpose for our lives. So, when God asks, “Will you be made whole?” He is inviting you to embrace healing, growth, and restoration in every area of your life.