What a story! Jesus jumped immediately back into ministry mode after his mountaintop experience. The scene appeared to be getting a little tense until Jesus showed up. The disciples who had stayed behind were being challenged by the religious leaders. Doubt had crept into the disciples’ own minds at their inability to help the demon-possessed child.
Rather than focus on Jesus’ apparent frustration with the situation, there is much to learn from how Jesus responded, as well as the father’s statement of faith. Let’s unpack that and how these verses are speaking to you today.
Jesus questioned his disciples’ faith. I felt for them at that moment. Jesus had been gone, after all, and they had done their best to handle the situation which was growing larger by the minute. And yet, their lack of confidence in Jesus’ power when he was absent revealed their lack of faith. That saddened Jesus as his expectations for them were so much greater. I don’t know about you, but it hurts me to think that I could disappoint Jesus like that with my unbelief.
Even the father of the possessed boy struck a nerve with Jesus when he questioned whether Jesus could heal his child. Did the man not know who he was addressing? Our “hindsight” understanding is clear all these years later. Jesus could do anything he wanted. Jesus himself said, “Anything is possible if a person believes.” “Anything is possible if a person believes.” Jesus said, “anything.”
This telling sentence Jesus spoke is one we should commit to memory to boost our faith when we need it. One fun way to memorize is to repeat the sentence repeatedly, each time putting emphasis on a different word. While the meaning doesn’t change, the “flavor” of the sentence has subtle differences. The repetition can help you memorize quickly.
The man hearing Jesus’ words quickly clarified that he believed, but needed help believing. I can relate, can’t you? Aren’t there times when you know in your head that Jesus is capable of doing anything, but then you let doubt creep in and put boundaries on that belief by claiming exceptions? We should never limit Jesus.
I prefer to do my best to be in awe of Jesus as often as possible. Whenever I need a jolt of belief, I read Scripture, look at nature, play worship music, or ask for the Holy Spirit’s help when I’m feeling especially lost.
One thing we should keep in mind is that “anything” means anything consistent with God’s will, not just any whim of our limited human mind. John 14:14, Jesus says, “Yes, ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it!” 1 John 5:14 says, “And we are confident that he hears us whenever we ask for anything that pleases him.” We can show Jesus our confident faith in Him by how we pray and seek his will.
Because we have the truth of the New Testament to teach us, we have an advantage over the disciples who were living their lives while trying to soak it all in. We can read the accounts and imagine ourselves there with the disciples. That can be an interesting way to reflect on Scripture when you place yourself in the story.
Reflect today on your belief in Jesus. Whether a new believer or one who has known Jesus for many years, we can still be tempted to look toward ourselves or the world for answers. Learning to trust Jesus as an “automatic” response in all circumstances takes time, maybe a lifetime. Enjoy your time with Jesus today.
Let’s pray. Jesus, my friend and Lord, I believe in you with my whole heart. I love spending time in Your Word, getting to know you and how you want me to respond. Help me in my unbelief during times of testing. Forgive me for not feeling worthy of your love. You have redeemed me and made me new. Thank you for never giving up on me. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
