Casting Doubts AsideSample

Introduction

Belief—a state or habit of mind in which trust or confidence is placed in some person or thing (Merriam Webster). There’s no need to extend belief when whatever we desire is in view. Belief is tested when what we hope for is unseen and worse, seems impossible. Throughout Scripture we encounter people for whom applying belief/faith is the only hope for a good outcome. In today’s reading, we meet a father desperate to see his son set free from the torture of an evil spirit.

Pray

God. Help me read your Word with an open mind to believe that you can do the impossible.

Read

Mark 9:17–27. Jesus tells a father seeking his help that everything is possible for those who have faith.

Reflect

Jesus is angered by the level of unbelief among the crowd and even his disciples. The father recognizes his own weakness in this area, admitting “I do have faith, but not enough” (v. 24 GNT). Jesus works with the father’s perceived insufficient faith and miraculously cures his son. Are you facing a situation and you feel your faith is insufficient to dispel your doubts?

Respond

Take a few moments to reflect on this idea: “Everything is possible for the person who has faith” (v. 24 GNT). Now think about your circumstance and imagine yourself bringing it to Jesus. If you feel your faith is weak, follow this father’s example. Acknowledge it and ask God to help you believe wholeheartedly.