“One of the things I don’t understand is why some people who have a strong faith in God continue to struggle with physical or emotional problems,” commented one of the men with whom I was having breakfast.

“Life is not simple,” I replied. The table was momentarily silent, then broke into laughter.

“Isn’t that a bit obvious?,” another asked as the chuckles subsided.

Perhaps it is, but I can think of innumerable instances in which people behaved as though it was not. Many tend to oversimplify various aspects of life here on earth even though, deep inside, we all know that life is not simple.

It is easy to tell others how simple things are, to explain to them how to change the situation they find themselves in. It is not so easy when we are afflicted personally.

I have an uncle who has struggled with multiple sclerosis for many years. In the 1970s the pastor of his church took him aside and told him that the MS flares were his own fault. If he would simply have faith he would be healed.

If he would simply have faith! Faith is a simple thing. It is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. I have faith that the sun will rise tomorrow morning. I cannot see tomorrow’s sunrise today, but, nevertheless, I believe that it will come. I cannot see God, but, nevertheless, I believe that He exists and that He directs my paths.

Faith is a simple thing, multiple sclerosis is not. Yes, it is possible to be miraculously healed of multiple sclerosis. I know a lady who experienced such a healing. It is possible, but it is not the norm, and it is cruel to tell someone who has the disease that it is present because he or she lacks faith.

I see another kind of oversimplification on a fairly regular basis. It occurs when a well meaning individual who has been helped by a particular product meets someone who is facing an health challenge.

When an individual experiences improved health or a greater sense of well being through the use of a nutritional supplement, essential oil, or bioenergetic device it is natural to assume that this is the answer, the cure for all diseases. This is particularly true if the company marketing the product suggests that its effectiveness is backed up by “numerous scientific studies” and provides testimonials from individuals who have been cured through use of the item.

“Simply take or use this product,” the enthusiastic supporter will proclaim, “and you’ll be back to normal in no time at all.” The human body has amazing recuperative abilities and at times all that it needs to turn the corner and begin the healing process is one amazing product or device. This is the exception, however, and not the rule.

Some individuals come to God and report that their long-standing addictions or emotional difficulties were removed in an instant. Some individuals take a nutritional supplement or use a magnet or other bioenergetic device and find that they have conquered a life-threatening disease. Some do, but many do not.

Life is not simple. For most of us achieving health and wholeness is an ongoing process. It involves cultivating our relationship with God. It requires paying attention to the fluids we drink and the foods we eat. To achieve and maintain our health we must take supplements that provide not one, not ten, not twenty nutrients, but over one hundred vitamins, minerals and phytochemicals. We must avoid toxic chemicals in our personal care items and in our household cleaning supplies.

I am aware of many excellent and exciting supplements and devices that offer hope to individuals who are facing a health challenge. Life, however, is not simple. These products should be part of a comprehensive program and not stand alone answers to the health challenges people face today.