Devotion:
For an audio version of this devotion, click here.
Read Mark 9:21-24.
We can only imagine what this father had already done in order to help his son. From childhood, the boy had been afflicted with terrible seizures, and some of them happened when the boy would be thrown into water or fire, which could have killed him. The father described the malady as an evil spirit. More than likely, the father had heard that this man Jesus could overcome evil spirits and make people whole again. So, he had brought his son to see Jesus.
Jesus had remarked about the unbelieving generation to which he had come. Then, when Jesus pointed out the man’s saying “if” Jesus can heal him, Jesus emphasized this evidence of the lack of faith. The man’s response of “I do believe; help me overcome my disbelief” speaks volumes! We believe and have faith, but our faith is often not complete. When my faith is tested, I often think of this father’s confession of faith and his prayer for more complete faith, all in the same sentence, and I identify with him. But I have learned not to pray for God’s help “if” God is able. God is able!
Personal Worship Option:
Think for a few minutes about something that is bothering you and that you have not been able to work out on your own. Take it to Jesus and ask for his help. Remember how Jesus healed this boy, even when the father’s faith was not complete.
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