Are You Full Of Fear or Faith
Saturday, October 25
Matthew 15:26-27 (NIV)
“He replied, “It is not right to take the children’s bread and toss it to the dogs.” “Yes it is, Lord,” she said. “Even the dogs eat the crumbs that fall from their master’s table.”
Devotion
In Pastor Franklin’s sermon ‘Fear Makes Noise, Faith Makes Room’, he preached that we need to make room for Jesus to provide miracles and breakthroughs—and quit worrying. Sometimes, in our worry or fear, we are not allowing God to move. We are choosing worry over worship and thinking that God can’t or won’t help us.
Perhaps you are concerned that you are not worthy of Jesus’ help. But think for a moment: in today’s passage, Jesus initially denied the mother’s request, telling her that the bread (healing and provision) being served was for the children, not the dogs, because she was a Canaanite. She replied with humility and faith—and her daughter was healed. Do you see that Jesus considers healing part of the bread He provides to those who trust in Him? Also, do you see that this woman acknowledged that, at that time, she was not among the children of God, yet she asked for a share of the provision anyway—and received it?
What are you waiting for? Are you looking for healing? Are you looking for a breakthrough? Turn your eyes and heart away from worry to faith and worship. Ask Jesus for help.
Today's Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father,
I confess my faith often falls short of the gentile woman that Jesus praises in today's Scripture. Increase my faith and show me practical ways to open my heart for more faith. Help me be more faithful in reading and hearing Your Word. Help me be more faithful in giving thanks and praying for my daily bread. Help me be joyful in trials and turn to You for wisdom without grumbling or complaining. In the Name of Jesus, I pray. Amen.
Apply It Today
We deny the power and promises of Jesus if we deny that He can and does help through miracles today. Jesus is Sovereign, and we will see more miracles if we make room for Him. What are you worried about in your life right now? Take some additional time in prayer today to bring it before Jesus in faith and humility, like the person in today’s passage.
Resources
- The Bread Metaphor: Jesus’ statement about taking the children's bread and tossing it to the dogs highlights the priority of His mission to the Jews. Yet, the woman's response—acknowledging her position but seeking even the crumbs—demonstrates her faith and understanding that Jesus' grace extends beyond Israel