Listen to this statement. "Faith produces miracles, and without it, we waste our time and our efforts trying to cause God to move on our behalf. The scriptures declare that we must understand the importance of having an unwavering, and steadfast belief that God is able to do just what He said He will do.
The text emphasizes the importance of having faith that produces miracles and how shattered faith, which is rooted in doubt and fear, can hinder God's work in our lives. The reference to Mark 9:24 introduces a father who believes but also struggles with his unbelief. This is a common theme as the text explores the idea that to see God's miracles, we must have unwavering faith in Him.
Shattered faith comes from doubt and leads to a lack of belief, which prevents God from acting. The passage mentions that Jesus marvels at the unbelief present in a crowd and how this can limit the miracles He can perform. Unbelief activates a self-imposed restraint from God, meaning He won't force His help on those who do not seek Him. Many people desire miracles but do not truly desire a relationship with God, leading to unfulfilled expectations.
Moreover, the text points out that even those who claim to believe can impact our faith negatively. Jesus rebukes His disciples for their lack of faith when they are unable to help a father with a possessed son, highlighting the need for genuine belief in all situations. Believers are encouraged not to allow fear or doubt to shatter their faith.
Many Christians rely on what they can see, similar to how the disciple, Thomas. Thomas did not believe in Jesus’ resurrection until he saw for himself the scars and flesh of His Savoir.
The text also emphasizes the importance of relying on God's Word, which produces faith. Listne, Faith is described as being in the present, while hope looks to the future; thus, believers should act on their faith now rather than merely hoping for things to happen later.
The example of the woman with the issue of blood illustrates someone who believed without allowing her circumstances to dictate her faith. She expressed her faith by saying she would be healed if she could just touch Jesus, contrasting with the father who expressed doubt. Her faith was present and active.
Further, the text explains that Jesus encourages the father to believe in possibilities, emphasizing personal responsibility; despite circumstances or disbelief from others, it is up to individuals to believe. The father's request reveals a struggle that many face: wanting to believe but feeling hindered by doubt.
The text concludes by challenging believers to help others regain confidence in the Lord, reiterating that God’s ability doesn’t depend on majority opinion but rather on those who diligently seek Him. Anyone willing to face this challenge of nurturing faith in themselves and others is invited to do so, as faithfulness and the willingness to perform miracles are attributes of God.
Leading Jesus Way