How can we encourage others to reach out to Jesus in faith today? A Glimpse of Bold Faith Luke 8:44 — “She came up behind Jesus and touched the fringe of His cloak, and immediately her bleeding stopped.” Why This Moment Still Speaks Today • A desperate woman crosses cultural, religious, and personal barriers. • One modest act—touching the edge of His garment—draws power from Christ Himself. • Jesus’ response (v. 48) affirms: “Daughter, your faith has healed you. Go in peace.” • The text shows: whenever anyone reaches for Jesus, He is ready, able, and willing. Common Reasons People Hesitate to Reach Out • Shame or fear of judgment (John 4:17-18). • Doubt that Jesus still works miracles (Hebrews 13:8). • Past disappointments or unanswered prayers (Psalm 42:9-11). • Dependence on self-help rather than God’s help (Proverbs 3:5-6). Practical Ways to Stir Faith in Others 1. Share the Word faithfully • “Faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of Christ.” (Romans 10:17) • Offer short, relatable Scripture portions—Luke 8:44, Mark 5:27-29, Hebrews 11:6. 2. Highlight Christ’s compassion and power • Tell stories of Jesus engaging outsiders: Luke 7:13-15; Luke 18:35-43. • Emphasize that no situation is beyond His reach (Jeremiah 32:17). 3. Give personal testimony • Explain how Jesus met you in weakness (Psalm 66:16). • Keep it God-centered: what He did, not what you achieved. 4. Remove practical obstacles • Offer transportation to church or a Bible study. • Create welcoming, judgement-free environments (Romans 15:7). 5. Model expectancy in conversation • Speak as though Jesus is alive and active—because He is (Revelation 1:18). • Use present-tense language: “Jesus heals,” “Jesus restores.” 6. Invite them to simple acts of faith • “Let’s read this verse together.” • “Would you be willing to ask Jesus for help right now?” • Touchpoint moments mirror the woman’s one reach of trust. Scripture That Fuels Expectancy • Matthew 11:28 — His open invitation. • Isaiah 41:10 — His promise of strength. • Ephesians 3:20 — His ability beyond all we ask or imagine. • James 4:8 — “Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you.” Living Examples Speak Loudest • Consistent joy in trials (Philippians 4:4-7) awakens curiosity. • Tangible acts of love (1 John 3:18) display Christ’s heart. • Forgiveness toward offenders (Matthew 5:44) proves the gospel’s power. Creating Space for Divine Encounters • Schedule regular gatherings centered on the Gospels. • Incorporate worship songs that exalt Jesus’ saving work. • Allow unhurried moments for people to respond, reflect, and reach. Closing Encouragement Keep presenting Jesus as accessible, compassionate, and all-powerful. Each time we lift Him up, we place the hem of His garment within someone else’s reach—and, like the woman in Luke 8:44, one simple touch of faith can bring immediate, life-changing power. |
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