Mark 9:20-24
So they brought him. When the spirit saw Jesus, it immediately threw the boy into a convulsion. He fell to the ground and rolled around, foaming at the mouth. Jesus asked the boy’s father, “How long has he been like this?” “From childhood,” he answered. “It has often thrown him into fire or water to kill him. But if you can do anything, take pity on us and help us.” “‘If you can’?” said Jesus. “Everything is possible for one who believes.” Immediately the boy’s father exclaimed, “I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief!” Mark 9:20-24 (NIV)
I like the last words of this passage, “I do believe, help me overcome my unbelief” This father admits that his faith is not as strong as it could be, and he asks Jesus to change him. He has a willingness to be made stronger. He may not understand Jesus' power and authority but he trusts Jesus' heart is like that of a loving father.
Just like this father, we too may question our belief. We may trust God to take care of us and direct our lives, but then when something seems to overpower our faith, we too may falter. We may have times when we have doubts. Those feelings could come out of fear, upset, or maybe even impatience. We may even find ourselves asking “If you can” God. Jesus’ response answers that question for us, “Everything is possible for one who believes.”
I find great reassurance and hope knowing that my faith can always keep growing. We are humans, and God knows that we are going to struggle. Becoming stronger in our faith is a lifelong process. The great news is that we are not expected to mature on our own. God will do the work in our hearts, if we just ask. I recently heard a song entitled, “What I Really Need”. Some of the words in the chorus say:
"Oh Lord, help my unbelief. You’re showing me that I need truth instead of answers, I need faith instead of sight, I need trust when I can’t find the reason why. . . I need hope instead of healing in my life. What I really need is You.”
We too need God in our lives. God wants us to stay connected to Him, living and trusting in Him. When we trust God as true, all things He promises are possible. We just need to continue to have faith, believe, relax in his presence and trust in Him.
Questions for Reflection:
- What would it take for you to seek God the way this Father did?
- How steady and sure do you feel about your faith?
Prayer
Dear God, Thank you for the truth of your Word. Help us to let go and trust in you so that we can stay strong in our faith, even when we can’t feel or see you. Help us to rest in the assurance that you are with us. Amen
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