Help My Unbelief...

Today, my heart weighed heavily as I prayed for you! YES YOU! You see, each day I lift a quick prayer for everyone who reads this blog.

As I prayed, the story recorded in Mark 9:21-24 passed through my thoughts. But more than a fictitious story we read for enjoyment...My heart embraced the "REAL LIFE PEOPLE" who reveal hope for us today. In Mark 9, "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 him who believes." Immediately the boy's father exclaimed, "I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief!" (NIV)

For years this father watched his son's disease torment him, throw him into fire or water to kill him...his desperate, weakened faith, let out an underlying cry for help..."If you can" revealed his anguish, pain, and all the disappointment from years of suffering.

Jesus' response convicts the man's desperate need as he quickly replies honestly..."I do believe...HELP me overcome my unbelief." Underlying tones arise...I believe...at least I want to believe...but I can't do this...I don't know what I believe...I've watched so much torment...I've tried every doctor possible...I've exhausted my resources and my energy...I have nothing left...If it's up to me...I know he won't get well...but I put my hope and trust in you...HELP!

Friend, our weaknesses often abate our hopes. Our faith wearies under the pressures of daily demands. BUT...there is always hope...JESUS is able. Like the father in this story, we may feel weak, helpless, at wits end...but...

2 Timothy 1:6-7 reminds us "to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you ... For God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline." (NIV)

Today, regardless of your years of suffering...regardless of previous failed attempts...JESUS promises "Everything is possible for him who believes." 

So, Press on! Put your confidence in WHO God is and remember WHAT HE PROMISED.

PRAYER: Father, let us witness the evidence of YOUR favor, provision, and goodness today! In Jesus name, amen.