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FAITH & FORGIVENESS

By Gavin Thames

WHEN JESUS SAW THEIR FAITH, HE SAID TO THE PARALYTIC, “SON, YOUR SINS ARE FORGIVEN.”  [MARK 2:5]

In Mark 2, Jesus was teaching in a house so full of people that not even one more could enter.  There were four men determined to bring their paralyzed friend to Jesus to be healed, but they could not get in.  The boldness of their faith, combined with a little creativity, paid off.  The men broke through the roof right over Jesus’ head.  I can imagine the noise, the debris falling down on Jesus, and the crowds looking up to the ceiling to see what was happening!  The men proceeded to lower the paralyzed man to Jesus, hoping for a miraculous healing of his body.  Jesus had a different plan.

When Jesus saw their act of faith, He said to the paralytic, “Son, your sins are forgiven.”  Now wait a minute…what just happened?  They came to Jesus for physical healing, but Jesus chose to address the paralyzed man’s greatest need, the healing of sin that infested his heart.  Jesus knew the man needed a heart healing above all else.  As a bonus, Jesus also healed the man’s paralyzed body, because of the faith of his four determined friends.

I don’t know how many times in my life I have prayed for relief from difficult trials and circumstances, which were brought on by my own foolishness.  Thanks to the forgiveness, grace, and mercy of Jesus, I have been delivered - miraculously at times.  More often than not, Jesus has used the messes I’ve created to humble me and bring me to my knees, so that He can heal my heart.

I find it comforting to know that Jesus is always standing ready to forgive me, restore me, and carry my burdens if I simply humble myself and place my trust fully in Him.  As you face your own trials, temptations, and difficult challenges, keep your eyes on Jesus.  He will always forgive you, restore you, and provide exactly what you need to get through any circumstance.

“COUNT IT PURE JOY WHEN YOU FALL INTO VARIOUS TRIALS, KNOWING THAT THE TESTING OF YOUR FAITH PRODUCES PATIENCE.” [JAMES 1:1-2]

QUESTION TO CONSIDER

What prevents you from placing 100% of your faith and trust in Jesus?

PRAYER

Jesus, thank you for being in total control of my life and circumstances.  I put my trust in you. Thank you for your forgiveness and restoration, and for growing my faith in times of trial.