Mark 9
May 12, 2022
“‘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!’” (v22-24)
The father of this demon-possessed boy was struggling to believe that Jesus could heal his son. But this dad did believe enough to come to Jesus and call out to Him for help. Thus, his prayer, “I believe; help me overcome my unbelief!” During my 18 month dark night of the soul that was marked by doubts and depression - this became one of my frequent prayers: “I believe; help me overcome my unbelief!” Not only because this prayer reflected my own battle to believe, but because I learned this is a prayer God loves to answer - as illustrated by Jesus healing this little boy and giving him back to his dad (v27).
Lord Jesus, I cannot read this story without breaking into praise for the way you answered this same prayer that I prayed 30 years ago, when I was struggling to believe. Thank You for opening my eyes to the truth that You really are who You say You are. And thank You for teaching me that it isn’t the size of my faith that matters, but the size of the GOD in whom I put my faith, that matters!
— Pastor Joshua Brooks
Use the following steps to guide your daily time with the Lord…
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Start with prayer. Ask God to open your heart to help you understand and receive His Word.
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Read and observe the passage carefully. As needed, read a second Bible version to help with understanding.
➡️ What does it say?
What does this passage teach me about God? What does it say about my sinful nature and my need for God’s grace? How does this passage point to Jesus?
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➡️ What am I going to do about it?
Does this passage include a promise to claim, an action/attitude to avoid/embrace, or a principle to apply? How can this truth apply to my life? What could my next step be? How can I share this with others? Is there a verse or section of Scripture I need to memorize?
