In what ways can we seek Jesus' help in our own persistent struggles? The Scene That Speaks to Every Struggle “And a woman was there who had suffered from bleeding for twelve years, but no one could heal her.” (Luke 8:43) Recognize When Human Help Has Limits • Twelve years, countless physicians, no relief—an honest picture of exhausted options • Admit when remedies, routines, or self-effort are spent (Psalm 60:11) • Let the failure of lesser saviors drive us toward the true One (Jeremiah 17:5-8) Push Through the Crowd • The woman “came up behind Him” (Luke 8:44) despite cultural, physical, and religious barriers • Our “crowds” may be fear, shame, or busyness—press past them (Hebrews 12:1-2) • Practical steps: ◦ Schedule unhurried time in Scripture and prayer ◦ Silence distracting voices—media, opinions, even well-meaning friends ◦ Seek a quiet place where faith drowns out noise (Mark 1:35) Reach Out in Simple, Specific Faith • “She touched the fringe of His cloak, and immediately her bleeding stopped.” (Luke 8:44) • No elaborate ritual—just a touch backed by belief (Matthew 9:29) • Name the struggle before Him: “Lord, this addiction...this anxiety...this grief” (Psalm 142:2) • Believe He is able and willing (Ephesians 3:20; Mark 1:41) Expect Personal Attention • “Who touched Me?” (Luke 8:45)—Jesus notices individual faith even in a throng • He is the same today (Hebrews 13:8); our cries never blend into background noise (Psalm 40:1) • Approach the throne “with confidence” to receive “mercy and find grace to help in time of need” (Hebrews 4:16) Confess Openly, Receive Completely • The woman “declared in the presence of all the people” what Jesus had done (Luke 8:47) • Sharing testimonies strengthens us and others (Revelation 12:11) • Public acknowledgment seals private victory—consider small-group or trusted friends Hear His Final Word Over the Struggle • “Daughter, your faith has healed you. Go in peace.” (Luke 8:48) • He names us family (“Daughter”), affirms faith, pronounces wholeness, imparts peace • Hold to His verdict when symptoms linger or memories return (Isaiah 26:3; John 14:27) Live Out Ongoing Dependence • Healing in Scripture often births lifelong devotion (Luke 8:2-3) • Daily habits: ◦ Thank Him for past rescues (Psalm 103:2-5) ◦ Stay in community that points back to Christ (Hebrews 10:24-25) ◦ Serve others from the comfort you’ve received (2 Corinthians 1:3-4) Summary Snapshot 1. Admit the limits of human solutions. 2. Push past obstacles to meet Jesus directly. 3. Touch Him by faith—specific, believing prayer. 4. Expect His personal attention and complete answer. 5. Confess His work openly, walk in His declared peace. 6. Keep relying on Him, turning your healed hurt into hope for others. |
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