What can we learn from the woman's approach to Jesus in Matthew 9:20? The Text “Just then a woman who had suffered from bleeding for twelve years came up behind Him and touched the fringe of His cloak.” (Matthew 9:20) Key Details in the Woman’s Approach • Twelve long years of continual suffering—she knew chronic disappointment. • She came “up behind Him,” choosing humility rather than spectacle. • She reached only for “the fringe of His cloak,” a modest, almost hidden contact. • Her action was forbidden by Leviticus 15:25–27; ceremonial uncleanness should have kept her away, yet need and faith overruled fear. • She initiated the encounter; Jesus did not call her out first. • Her faith was specific: she believed mere touch would heal (Mark 5:28). Timeless Principles for Believers • Desperation can draw us straight to Christ instead of into defeat. Psalm 34:18. • Humility positions us to receive grace (James 4:6). She sought no spotlight, only a Savior. • Faith acts. Hebrews 11:6 reminds that faith must move toward the One who rewards. • No barrier—ritual, social, or personal—outweighs the invitation to draw near (James 4:8). • Even the smallest contact with Jesus is enough; the power is His, not ours (Luke 8:46). • Personal initiative in seeking the Lord is honored (Jeremiah 29:13). • Quiet, confident trust need not be loud to be genuine; God hears the unspoken (1 Samuel 1:13–17 with Hannah). Encouragement to Act • Bring chronic, long-standing struggles to Jesus today. • Approach with humility, acknowledging need without demanding center stage. • Let nothing—past failures, social pressure, personal unworthiness—keep you from reaching for Him. • Believe that even the slightest “touch” through prayer, Scripture, or worship releases His power. • Move forward now; the One who noticed a hidden touch still sees and rewards living faith. |
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