"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
Do you believe that what you believe is really real? That is a quote from Dr. Del Tackett, The Truth Project from Focus on the Family. Jesus was asking the father of the young boy that question. The father was making it plain to Jesus. He believed but, at the same time, he had doubts. Imagine that all you had to do was believe hard enough and whatever you wanted to happen - happened. Most of our prayers have to do with getting relief from some life issue. So wouldn't that be great!
Do you believe that God wants the best for you? Of course. But what is the best for any of us? Not a trick question. Eternal life found by faith in Jesus. So, what about living our mortal lives on this planet? I can only speak for myself and what I have observed in other people. That coupled with the rest of the Bible. To quote the sage, Loretta Lynn. "I beg your pardon, I didn't promise you a rose garden. Along with the sunshine there's gonna be a little rain sometimes." Sometimes it might be a hurricane.
"Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything." - James 1:2-4
As Christians we live in two realities - one mortal and the other spiritual. The question is which one dominates our thinking and how we respond to the here and now? The truth is that from time to time, we need help with our weak faith when that faith is confronted by the certain unpleasantries in this life.
"Suddenly a furious storm came up on the lake, so that the waves swept over the boat. But Jesus was sleeping. The disciples went and woke him, saying, “Lord, save us! We’re going to drown!” He replied, “You of little faith, why are you so afraid?” Then he got up and rebuked the winds and the waves, and it was completely calm." - Matthew 8:24-26
Those guys were in the boat WITH Jesus, and still they were fearful. Trouble can do that - i.e., cause you to lose perspective and awareness. Don't be surprised if and when it happens to you. Read Psalm 121 - happens to be my grandma's favorite psalm and for good reason.
"I lift up my eyes to the mountains—where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth. He will not let your foot slip— he who watches over you will not slumber; indeed, he who watches over Israel will neither slumber nor sleep. The Lord watches over you— the Lord is your shade at your right hand; the sun will not harm you by day, nor the moon by night. The Lord will keep you from all harm—he will watch over your life; the Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore. - Psalm 121:1-8
Think about it – Pray about it – Believe it – Walk in it. Let your light shine and give God the glory.
By Faith Alone By His Grace Alone And For His Glory Alone
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