Rising in faith
- Jacob Ninan
We hear many people saying (perhaps we have said it ourselves), "Oh, I don't have that much faith." The implication is that faith is something that is based on our capacity. But this is a false understanding! Faith is not a recognition of our strength or ability. It is a recognition of God's ability. Our faith is not in ourselves, but in God. So, if we say we don't have that much of faith, what we are really saying is that we don't believe God has that much ability! I am pretty sure that is not what we meant to say.
There was this incident when a man brought his demon possessed son to Jesus' disciples for healing (Mk.9:17,18). This man pleaded with Jesus to help him if He could (v.22). Jesus said, "'If You can!' All things are possible to him who believes" (v.23). Immediately the man said, "I do believe; help my unbelief" (v.24).
What Jesus pointed out to this man was that there was no question about Jesus' ability, but what was needed was this man to have faith in that ability. When the man's attention was turned away from himself to Jesus, immediately he received faith.
Isn't this what we should do when we are faced with situations that look impossible? Look at Jesus. See His almighty power, perfect wisdom and unending love towards us. Then we too can rise in faith - trusting that Jesus can handle this for us.