A man brought his son to Jesus to be delivered.  The boy has been tormented by a spirit his entire life, and his father was at his wit’s end when Jesus appears and the father asks if Jesus is able to heal his son.

Jesus said to him, “If you are able! — All things can be done for the one who believes.” Immediately the father of the child cried out, “I believe; help my unbelief!”

Mark 9:23-24

Faith isn’t easy.  Faith is not just a belief that everything will work out (even without any evidence).  Rather, faith is difficult.  It is difficult to say to God “I have complete faith and I turn it all over to you.” 

This father sums up a lot of us, especially if we have sick children, spouses or other family members.  We spend so much time, energy and resources seeking help, and when things do not work out, we get deflated, just like this father.  Our prayers tend to be begging and bargaining “Please Lord heal them” or “Lord, I’ll take the pain, I’ll take the sickness if you heal them.”  We pray earnestly and in faith, yet do not always believe.

I believe; help my unbelief.  It could be a daily prayer for all of us.  Is your job going poorly and you have no idea what to do next?  I believe; help my unbelief.  Is your relationship in trouble?  I believe, help my unbelief.  Are you struggling with a personal issue?  I believe, help my unbelief.  Is your church in need of transformation?  I believe, help my unbelief.

God may not give us the complete outcome we desire, but if we pray for greater belief, God will show us the way forward.  As you journey through this week, keep this prayer in mind.  I believe, help my unbelief.

Peace,

Pastor Bill