Today we will talk about Bible verses about sangomas. Many Christians may not know what this term means, as it refers to traditional healers found in some cultures, particularly in Southern Africa. Sangomas often use ancestral knowledge, herbal remedies, and spiritual practices to heal. However, the Bible offers us wisdom on seeking help, healing, and understanding spiritual matters. As we continue through God’s Word, let’s engage in a spirit of meditation and reflection, asking for clarity on these topics. We can learn how to navigate this complex issue through scripture while staying rooted in our faith.
Bible Verses About Sangomas
Spiritual Guidance
In our spiritual journeys, seeking guidance can often lead us to different sources. It’s crucial for us to discern between divine guidance and other influences. The Bible encourages us to rely on God for our understanding of spiritual matters rather than turning to mediums or spirit guides. We should be mindful of where we seek wisdom; scripture is a timeless source of truth that helps us stay grounded in our faith and purpose.
Isaiah 8:19
“When someone tells you to consult mediums and spiritists, who whisper and mutter, should not a people inquire of their God? Why consult the dead on behalf of the living?” – Isaiah 8:19
Deuteronomy 18:10-12
“Let no one be found among you who sacrifices their son or daughter in the fire, who practices divination or interprets omens, engages in witchcraft, or casts spells, or who is a medium or spiritist or who consults the dead. Anyone who does these things is detestable to the Lord.” – Deuteronomy 18:10-12
1 Chronicles 10:13-14
“Saul died because he was unfaithful to the Lord; he did not keep the word of the Lord and even consulted a medium for guidance.” – 1 Chronicles 10:13-14
Galatians 5:19-21
“The acts of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions and envy.” – Galatians 5:19-21
Proverbs 3:5-6
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” – Proverbs 3:5-6
Healing Through Faith
While traditional healing practices like those employed by sangomas may provide comfort to many, we believe true healing comes from faith in God. The Bible showcases numerous instances of divine healing and emphasizes that faith can often be the catalyst for our wholeness. This teaches us to seek God’s help in every situation, knowing He is ultimately our healer. As we turn to Him in prayer and trust, we open the door to His miraculous touch in our lives.
James 5:14-15
“Is anyone among you sick? Let them call the elders of the church to pray over them and anoint them with oil in the name of the Lord. And the prayer offered in faith will make the sick person well.” – James 5:14-15
Jeremiah 30:17
“But I will restore you to health and heal your wounds,’ declares the Lord, ‘because you are called an outcast, Zion for whom no one cares.'” – Jeremiah 30:17
Psalm 147:3
“He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.” – Psalm 147:3
Exodus 15:26
“He said, ‘If you listen carefully to the Lord your God and do what is right in His eyes, if you pay attention to His commands and keep all His decrees, I will not bring on you any of the diseases I brought on the Egyptians, for I am the Lord, who heals you.'” – Exodus 15:26
Matthew 9:12
“On hearing this, Jesus said, ‘It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick.'” – Matthew 9:12
Wisdom in Discernment
As we navigate spiritual and health-related choices, discernment is vital. The Bible teaches us to value wisdom and understanding, reminding us that not every source of healing aligns with God’s teachings. Let’s be open to the wisdom of God, the Bible as our guide, so we can make choices that honor Him. Trusting His voice ensures that we remain safe from misleading influences and choices that stray from His path.
Proverbs 2:6
“For the Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding.” – Proverbs 2:6
Proverbs 4:7
“The beginning of wisdom is this: Get wisdom. Though it cost all you have, get understanding.” – Proverbs 4:7
1 John 4:1
“Dear friends, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world.” – 1 John 4:1
Proverbs 16:25
“There is a way that appears to be right, but in the end, it leads to death.” – Proverbs 16:25
Proverbs 3:21
“My son, do not let wisdom and understanding out of your sight, preserve sound judgment and discretion.” – Proverbs 3:21
Our Purpose in Faith
Each of us has a unique, God-given purpose in our lives. The Bible assures us that understanding our calling is essential for walking in faith. Rather than seeking external validation from tools like sangomas or other spiritual leaders, we must focus on what God has called us to do. Pursuing our purpose with dedication brings fulfillment and aligns with God’s plan for us, which can lead to true peace and joy.
Ephesians 2:10
“For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” – Ephesians 2:10
Colossians 3:23-24
“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward.” – Colossians 3:23-24
Jeremiah 29:11
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” – Jeremiah 29:11
Romans 8:28
“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” – Romans 8:28
Philippians 1:6
“Being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” – Philippians 1:6
Trusting God’s Provision
We often seek reassurance in times of need, and while traditional healing methods may seem appealing, we need to remember God’s provision. His resources are vast, and He promises to care for all our needs. As we trust in Him, we can find the help we crave and be filled with His peace. Turning away from reliance on sangomas allows us to focus on His provision for our physical, mental, and spiritual well-being.
Philippians 4:19
“And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.” – Philippians 4:19
Matthew 6:26
“Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your Heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?” – Matthew 6:26
Psalms 34:10
“The lions may grow weak and hungry, but those who seek the Lord lack no good thing.” – Psalms 34:10
Lamentations 3:22-23
“Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.” – Lamentations 3:22-23
Matthew 7:7-8
“Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened.” – Matthew 7:7-8
Worship and Praise
In every situation, worship and praise should be at the forefront of our hearts. Engaging with God through worship draws us nearer to Him, strengthening our faith and trust. When we actively praise God, we reinforce that He is our ultimate source of strength and healing. Declaring our faith through worship helps us to move away from reliance on sangomas and other methods contrary to His ways, focusing instead on His power and love.
Psalms 100:4
“Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name.” – Psalms 100:4
Psalms 95:6
“Come, let us bow down in worship, let us kneel before the Lord our Maker.” – Psalms 95:6
Colossians 3:16
“Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly, as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts.” – Colossians 3:16
Ephesians 5:19
“Speaking to one another with psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit. Sing and make music from your heart to the Lord.” – Ephesians 5:19
Psalms 150:6
“Let everything that has breath praise the Lord. Praise the Lord!” – Psalms 150:6
God’s Protection
It’s natural to seek safety and comfort when we’re faced with difficult situations. While some may turn to sangomas for protection, we must remember that true protection comes from God. The Bible teaches us that God is our shield and refuge, always ready to guard us. With Him on our side, we can rest assured that we are secure and loved, and that no challenge can overwhelm us.
Psalm 91:1-2
“Whoever dwells in the secret place of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, ‘He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.'” – Psalm 91:1-2
Isaiah 41:10
“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” – Isaiah 41:10
Psalm 23:4
“Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.” – Psalm 23:4
Proverbs 18:10
“The name of the Lord is a fortified tower; the righteous run to it and are safe.” – Proverbs 18:10
Romans 8:31
“What, then, shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?” – Romans 8:31
Living in Obedience
To truly align ourselves with God, we must strive to live in obedience to His Word. The Bible lays out clear guidance for us in our lives. We should avoid seeking help from sources like sangomas and instead focus on living according to God’s principles. As we embrace His teachings, we find peace and fulfillment that the world cannot offer. Obedience to God leads to a vibrant, fulfilling spiritual life.
John 14:15
“If you love me, keep my commands.” – John 14:15
Romans 12:2
“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” – Romans 12:2
Matthew 7:21
“Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven.” – Matthew 7:21
1 John 5:2-3
“This is how we know that we love the children of God: by loving God and carrying out his commands. In fact, this is love for God: to keep his commands. And his commands are not burdensome.” – 1 John 5:2-3
2 John 1:6
“And this is love: that we walk in obedience to his commands. As you have heard from the beginning, his command is that you walk in love.” – 2 John 1:6
Final Thoughts
As we explored these Bible verses about sangomas, it’s clear that understanding our spiritual guidance and seeking healing should always be rooted in God. The scriptures remind us of the importance of discernment, trusting in God’s provision for our lives, and living in obedience. While many may turn to traditional healers for help, we have a faithful God who is always ready to guide, heal, and protect us.
By turning our hearts to Him in worship and casting our cares on Him, we find true solace. We are each challenged to align our lives with His Word, so that we might walk in His ways and fulfill our God-given purposes. Let’s choose to trust God wholeheartedly, drawing near to Him for our needs, knowing that He is always with us.
May this journey of faith be filled with hope, love, and a deeper understanding of God’s infinite grace. Always remember that God is our true healer and protector.
Further Reading
30 Bible Verses About Getting Closer To God (With Commentary)
30 Bible Verses About Removing People From Your Life (With Commentary)
30 Bible Verses About Israel (With Explanation)
30 Bible Verses About Being Lukewarm (With Explanation)
4 Ways to Encounter Grace and Truth: A Study on John, Chapter 4