Our scripture this morning is Mark 9:23-24.
“What do you mean, ‘If I can’?” Jesus asked. “Anything is possible if a person believes.” The father instantly cried out, “I do believe, but help me overcome my unbelief!”
Earlier in Mark 9 three of the disciples saw Jesus in all His glory, transfigured on a mountaintop. Immediately after this, Jesus deals with an unclean spirit possessing a boy down in the village. This illustrates the difference between what Jesus offers us and what the world can do to us: we could be on the mountaintop if we believe instead of trapped in sin down below.
The story tells us the other disciples had tried unsuccessfully to help the boy on their own (Mark 9:18). Later, they ask why they failed and Jesus replies “This kind can be cast out only by prayer” (Mark 9:29). This means both prayer and a living relationship with God.
“I do believe, but help me overcome my unbelief!” (Mark 9:24) could be our confession, not only when confronted by huge issues, but in everyday things. Merely believing in God is very different than having a relationship and allowing Him to work in our lives that we may work for His kingdom. We may indeed believe but we must listen, learn and do in order to live in full belief.
Loving Lord, we need Your help to live through the valleys of life. We want to live for You and share the joy of the mountaintop with all Your children. Amen.
