Saturday, January 9
Read Matthew 8
Think About It:
- Matthew 8 speaks of all who had faith in Jesus: a leper (verse 8), the centurion whose servant was paralyzed (verse 10), Peter’s mother-in-law (verse 15), all the demon-possessed and sick people who came for healing in Capernaum (verses 14-16), the wind and waves (verse 26), and even the demons (verses 29-31). But Jesus’ followers did not always have faith in Him (verse 25). How many times do Christians fail to believe in the authority of Jesus’ Name and the power of His Holy Spirit?
- The Bible tells us of God’s love for us and yet we often fail to trust He really wants to heal us or help us – and is well able to help and heal us. Without faith, it’s impossible to please God. Reading the Bible daily to learn about God’s character, His love, His power and His will is so important to maintain a solid faith that pleases Him. Jesus healed the sick and rebuked the storm because they were not the will of the Father. We have that same responsibility in life, to use the authority Jesus gives us to rebuke that which is not of God, heal the sick and bring peace into chaotic situations in life. As you read verses 5-13 consider the great faith of the centurion that pleased Jesus; how does our faith compare to that? “As you believe, so shall it be done unto thee.” (verse 12) The more we exercise our faith, the stronger it gets! As you spend time talking to Jesus today, use your faith to trust Him for His will the way the centurion trusted Him. You have authority over every storm you encounter. Rest in His peace.
Family Time:
- What miracles did Jesus do in this chapter?
- How can it help us to know that Jesus is greater than sickness?
- Does Jesus still do miracles today?
