Bible verses about health
The Bible does not separate body and soul as if one did not matter. It calls the body a temple of the Spirit, says a cheerful heart is good medicine and links rest, food and care with words to the health of the whole person. John wishes his friend Gaius good health and prosperity "even as your soul prospers" — a wish many use as a prayer. The verses on this page are for those caring for their own health, for those going through treatment and for anyone who wants to give thanks for a day without pain. They do not replace a doctor, a test or medicine: they are a reminder that caring for yourself is also a way of caring for what God entrusted to you.
Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things and be healthy, even as your soul prospers.
A cheerful heart makes good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones.
Or don’t you know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God? You are not your own, for you were bought with a price. Therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God’s.
Don’t be wise in your own eyes. Fear Yahweh, and depart from evil. It will be health to your body, and nourishment to your bones.
Praise Yahweh, my soul, and don’t forget all his benefits, who forgives all your sins, who heals all your diseases,
behold, I will bring it health and healing, and I will cure them; and I will reveal to them abundance of peace and truth.
My son, attend to my words. Turn your ear to my sayings. Let them not depart from your eyes. Keep them in the center of your heart. For they are life to those who find them, and health to their whole body.
and Yahweh will guide you continually, satisfy your soul in dry places, and make your bones strong. You will be like a watered garden, and like a spring of water whose waters don’t fail.
Frequently asked questions
Which verse says a cheerful heart is good medicine?
Proverbs 17:22: "A cheerful heart makes good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones".
What does it mean that the body is a temple of the Holy Spirit?
1 Corinthians 6:19-20 reminds us the body is not disposable: caring for it — sleep, food, limits — is part of honoring God.
Can I pray for health and also get treatment?
Yes, and that is what is recommended. Prayer and medical care go together; the Bible shows God working through people and practical care as well.
See also
Scripture text: World English Bible (WEB), public domain. Prayers, introductions and reflections: original text by this site, not affiliated with any denomination. Devotional content; it does not replace medical, psychological or legal advice.