In 1994, the papers told the sad story of an accountant who died after attempting to operate upon himself at home. Mr. Arthur Spears, 63, of Winchester, who was afraid of doctors, died at home after he tried to ease the pain of an enlarged prostate by inserting 18 inch of plastic flex into his bladder. He died in agony from peritonitis. Mr. Grahame Short, a coroner, recorded a verdict of misadventure, and said that the problem could have been cured by a simple operation.

This story is but a picture of a far sadder one. We all have a serious problem within. The Bible calls this SIN! This is the reason for man’s total ruin and misery. As guilty sinners we are all under the judgment of a holy God. Most could not care less, and sadly there are those who think that they can save themselves by following various religions. However, this can never take away sin, bring peace to the soul, or merit a place in heaven. Few give little thought to how serious their condition is. The Bible says that the human heart is "deceitful above all things and desperately wicked, who can know it?" (Jeremiah 17v9). God answers the question by saying "I the Lord search the heart" (v10). God alone can see the true state of man and tells us that "There is none righteous, no not one" (Romans 3v10). Our problem is too deep for any religion and self effort to cure.

Jesus said "They that are whole have no need of the physician but they that are sick: I came not to call the righteous but sinners to repentance" (Mark 2v17). It is Christ who is the Great Physician and He alone can cure you of the problem of sin the moment you repent and turn to Him for salvation. Just as sick people need a doctor, we as sinners need a Saviour. Faith in Christ alone will bring peace with God for His blood was shed on the cross to cleanse away sin and bring forgiveness to those who trust Him.

Reader, are you trying to save yourself or trusting the One who can save?