In what ways can we apply the woman's faith to our daily challenges? The Woman's Story in Brief “ And a woman was there who had suffered from bleeding for twelve years.” (Mark 5:25) She had tried every doctor, spent every coin, and only grew worse—until she reached through the press of bodies and touched the fringe of Jesus’ cloak. Instantly she was healed (Mark 5:26-29). Faith That Defied Barriers • Physical pain: twelve relentless years. • Social shame: considered ceremonially unclean (Leviticus 15:25-27). • Financial ruin: “had spent all she had” (v. 26). • Thick crowd: she was anonymous, unnoticed, yet unrelenting. Her faith was not vague optimism; it was a settled conviction that Jesus is able and willing. Lessons for Our Everyday Battles • Chronic problems do not disqualify us from Christ’s attention. • Repeated disappointments can drive us toward, not away from, the Lord. • Faith begins with hearing: “When the woman heard about Jesus…” (v. 27). • Belief is voiced: “She kept saying, ‘If only I touch His garments…’ ” (v. 28; cf. Romans 10:17). • Faith acts: she pushed forward and made contact. Practical Steps to Live This Faith 1. Name the issue that has lingered. Bring it into the open before God. 2. Saturate your mind with what Scripture says Jesus can do—read Gospel accounts daily. 3. Replace complaints with faith-filled confession: “Lord, if I draw near, You will meet me” (James 4:8). 4. Take a concrete action that corresponds to trust: • Forgive someone. • Ask for prayer from mature believers (James 5:14-15). • Serve while waiting for breakthrough. 5. Persist. Twelve years did not break her hope; long seasons need not break ours (Galatians 6:9). Encouragement From Other Scriptures • “But Jesus turning and seeing her said, ‘Take courage, daughter; your faith has healed you.’ ” (Matthew 9:22, parallel account) • “Woman, great is your faith! Let it be done for you as you desire.” (Matthew 15:28) • “And without faith it is impossible to please God…” (Hebrews 11:6) Her story proves that a single, determined reach toward Jesus can overturn years of defeat. Let that same reach mark our response to every challenge today. |
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