Wisdom for Everyday Life
Read: Mark 9:21–24
A father tells Jesus how long his son has suffered and how often his life has been in danger. His appeal for compassion includes a hesitant phrase: if Jesus can do anything. After so much distress, he is asking for help without sounding certain that help will come.
Jesus challenges that hesitation and speaks of what is possible for one who believes. The father immediately answers that he believes, then asks Jesus to help his unbelief. His prayer holds together the trust that brought him there and the weakness he cannot conceal.
We can hesitate to pray because we think we must first become more certain. We may know what we believe about Jesus and still struggle to entrust a painful situation to him. The father's response gives words to that struggle. He turns toward Jesus with what is true about his faith, including what needs strengthening.
The father gives us an example of bringing need honestly to the One we are learning to trust. Asking him for help with unbelief is itself a way of depending on him. We do not have to hide our weakness in order to speak.
Ponder: What uncertainty have I been reluctant to include in my prayers?
Practice: Name one real need before Jesus today. Tell him both what you trust about him and where that trust feels weak, then ask for his help.
Carry This with You
Bring Jesus the faith you have and the help you need. An honest prayer can include both.
A Prayer
Lord Jesus, I believe; help my unbelief. Receive the need I bring, strengthen my trust, and teach me to depend on you with an honest heart. Amen.
Read the Mark 9 Deep Dive for the father's story and its fuller setting.
What is one thing you want to remember?
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