Why do we ever doubt God? Why do we limit what God can do or will do based on our circumstances? Why do we believe that we somehow know better than God? Why do we practically demand that God act in the way we want, within the time frame we want Him to?
We are so foolish.
God is so big. God is so holy. God is so powerful, and mighty. In Him is found only that which is good. Right. Pure. He is the source of creation, and through Him, all of our needs are provided for. God has no limit to his ability to heal, restore, and perform miracles.
While we do not have the ability of God, we were created to be in relationship with the One True God. By being in relationship with Him, by drawing close to Him, we are provided all these things and more! In our nearness to God, our faith in Him grows stronger. We are more likely to sense His presence, recognize His hand, and depend on Him when needs arise, while our worries dissipate and our trust in Him increases.
In the book of Matthew, an event is told about Jesus’ time in Capernaum. It is a reminder of how God’s healing and provision are provided by our faith in Him, and not due to the family or people group that we are born into. This story is amazing because it also reveals that while the Romans and Jews were enemies at this time culturally, our hearts do not need to fit into the demands of what culture suggest they should.
“When Jesus returned to Capernaum, a Roman officer came and pleaded with him. “LORD, my young servant lies in bed, paralyzed and in terrible pain.” Jesus said, “I will come and heal him.” But the officer said, “LORD, I am not worthy to have you come into my home. Just say the word from where you are, and my servant will be healed. I know this because I am under the authority over my soldiers. I need only say, ‘Go,’ and they go, or ‘Come,’ and they come. And if I say to my slaves, ‘Do this,’ they do it.” When Jesus heard this, He was amazed. Turning to those who were following him, he said, “I tell you the truth, I haven’t seen faith like this in all Israel! And I tell you this, that many Gentiles will come from all over the world – from east and west – and set down with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob at the feast in the Kingdom of Heaven….” “Then Jesus said to the Roman officer, “Go back home. Because you believed, it has happened.” And the young servant was healed that same hour.” (Matthew 8:5-11, 13)
The servant was healed because of the faith of his master. His master sought help from the One he knew had the power and ability to provide it.
Is it possible that we have not, because we ask not? Is it possible that we do not fully have the faith to believe that God can and still does provide healing? Miracles?
May our faith be like that of this Roman officer!
Blessings!