A Greater Faith

I Believe; Help My Unbelief

The Gospel of Mark records Jesus healing a boy with an unclean spirit. But what is so different from this healing? Jesus often healed apart from the faith of the one in whom he had healed. However, on this occasion, Jesus chose to emphasize the power of faith. In this account, the father of the boy pleaded with Jesus and said "If you can do anything, have compassion on us and help us". (Mark 9:22). Jesus' reply to him, "If you can! All things are possible for one who believes." (Mark 9:23) The father then cried out, "I believe; help my unbelief!" (Mark 9:24). He pleaded with Jesus to help him have the greater faith the LORD demanded of him. Have you ever been in a place where you cry out to God to help your unbelief? To have the greater faith demanded of you? When we are going through the struggles of life it can seem as though the struggles are more than we can bear. No doubt this man struggled with the fact that his son had suffered since childhood a life of torment. When we struggle, doubt can creep in as to where God is in our moments of great trouble. Be assured, he is right there in the midst of the struggle with you. It is in these desperate moments that we need to come to God admitting the imperfection of our faith, for he already knows our heart. He will give you the strength and assurance you need. Jesus took the lifeless boy by the hand and lifted him up. He will do the same for you! He will take you by the hand and lead you. Have faith!

LORD, thank you for letting us see through Scripture your loving care for all people. Thank you for making it possible, through your Son Jesus Christ, to endure all things. Help us when doubt starts to creep in to remember you are right there with us to strengthen us and to remember that all things are possible for the one who believes in Your Son.  In Jesus name I pray. Amen.