How can we demonstrate faith like the father in Mark 9:20 today? Meeting Jesus in the Crisis “ ‘So they brought the boy to Jesus. As soon as the spirit saw Him, it threw the boy into a convulsion. He fell to the ground and rolled around, foaming at the mouth.’ ” (Mark 9:20) What the Father Did Right • Took his desperate need straight to the Lord instead of hiding it • Persevered after the disciples failed (Mark 9:18) • Stood near Jesus even as the problem intensified (v. 20) • Spoke honestly: “I do believe; help my unbelief!” (v. 24) Living Out That Same Faith Today • Bring every matter directly to Christ—first, not last – Philippians 4:6 “in everything, by prayer and petition” • Keep coming when earlier attempts disappoint – Luke 18:1 “always pray and not lose heart” • Remain in His presence while the situation looks worse before it gets better – Psalm 46:1 “a very present help in trouble” • Admit weakness while still trusting His power – 2 Corinthians 12:9 “My grace is sufficient for you” Practical Steps for an Honest, Active Faith 1. Start each day by naming specific needs aloud to the Lord. 2. Open Scripture expecting literal guidance; read until a promise meets the need. 3. Write both belief and lingering doubt in a journal, ending with “I trust You anyway.” 4. Invite mature believers to pray with you, just as the father sought Jesus’ disciples first. 5. Celebrate small answers quickly; gratitude fuels continued faith. Daily Habits That Keep Trust Growing • Memorize verses on God’s faithfulness (Hebrews 10:23; Numbers 23:19). • Fast periodically to focus attention on Christ alone (Matthew 6:16–18). • Gather weekly with the church; shared testimony strengthens resolve (Hebrews 10:25). • Regularly recall past deliverances; remembering prevents wavering (Psalm 77:11–12). Assurances to Anchor the Heart • “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” (Hebrews 13:8) • “Whatever you ask in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours.” (Mark 11:24) • “Without faith it is impossible to please God.” (Hebrews 11:6) Holding fast to these truths, we can demonstrate the same genuine, persevering faith the father showed—faith that runs to Jesus, stays with Him amid turmoil, and trusts Him to do what no one else can. |
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