LACKING FAITH
September 1, 2019 | Wopsle
God is able and willing to intervene and provide the strength, wisdom, and healing we need to face difficult circumstances and trials. And His ability does not hinge on the level of faith we have. He is able regardless, but we must have faith that He will act. In part 3 of In Courage, Wopsle challenges us to take hold of God's ability and increase our faith that He is willing.
MESSAGE NOTES
Lacking Faith
In Courage | Week 3
September 1, 2019 | Wopsle
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Mark 9:14-19 NIV
When they came to the other disciples, they saw a large crowd around them and the teachers of the law arguing with them. As soon as all the people saw Jesus, they were overwhelmed with wonder and ran to greet him. “What are you arguing with them about?” he asked. A man in the crowd answered, “Teacher, I brought you my son, who is possessed by a spirit that has robbed him of speech. Whenever it seizes him, it throws him to the ground. He foams at the mouth, gnashes his teeth and becomes rigid. I asked your disciples to drive out the spirit, but they could not.” “You unbelieving generation,” Jesus replied, “how long shall I stay with you? How long shall I put up with you? Bring the boy to me.”
We don’t lose faith in God, but we lose faith in what he says about us.
Mark 9:20-22 NIV
So they brought him. When the spirit saw Jesus, it immediately threw the boy into a convulsion. He fell to the ground and rolled around, foaming at the mouth. Jesus asked the boy’s father, “How long has he been like this?” “From childhood,” he answered. “It has often thrown him into fire or water to kill him. But if you can do anything, take pity on us and help us.”
Mark 9:23 NIV
“‘If you can’?” said Jesus. “Everything is possible for one who believes.”
Our lack of faith causes us not to call on the power of the Holy Spirit.
Matthew 14:28-31 NIV
“Lord, if it’s you,” Peter replied, “tell me to come to you on the water.” “Come,” he said. Then Peter got down out of the boat, walked on the water and came toward Jesus. But when he saw the wind, he was afraid and, beginning to sink, cried out, “Lord, save me!” Immediately Jesus reached out his hand and caught him. “You of little faith,” he said, “why did you doubt?”
Mark 9:24 NIV
Immediately the boy’s father exclaimed, “I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief!”