The Working of Your Faith – The Supernatural

This week, we explore essential principles in the Kingdom: how faith operates and how the supernatural flows to fulfil God’s promises in the life of a believer. Mark 5 provides valuable insights into these principles, equipping us with timeless wisdom to strengthen our walk with God. Here, we encounter Jairus, a highly respected synagogue leader, whose story illustrates the workings of faith. Jairus approached Jesus with urgency, saying, “My little daughter lies at the point of death. Come and lay Your hands on her, that she may be healed, and she will live” (vs.23). His desperation teaches us the importance of recognizing where we are in our faith journey. Jairus knew that he could not wait long; his faith demanded immediate action, and so he urgently sought the Master. At one time or another, we have all faced situations that stretched our faith, testing our ability to hold onto hope until we see God’s promises manifest. Jairus faced a similar situation here, where “a great multitude followed Jesus and thronged Him” (vs.24), each wanting Jesus’ attention and intervention, thus delaying Jairus’ request. This reminds us that life’s delays can test our faith, and we should not assume that it will always be smooth sailing. When our needs seem pressing, it is tempting to seek quick fixes or alternatives. But, in those moments, we must choose to trust God, persisting in faith and patience. Among those following was a desperate woman with a bleeding issue, who had endured immense suffering. She said to herself, “If only I may touch His clothes, I shall be made well” (vs.28). Her conviction demonstrates that our faith directly impacts our ability to receive what God has already provided by grace. Jesus immediately felt power leave Him, then turned around in the crowd and asked, “Who touched My clothes?” (vs.30). His response reveals that simply being near God is not enough – we must place a demand on His power; we must value and honor Him and His Word to fully experience the blessings He has availed for us. God’s power and anointing flow to those who approach Him with reverence.

While Jesus spoke to the woman, messengers came to Jairus with news, saying, “Your daughter is dead. Why trouble the Teacher any further?” (vs.35). This report attempted to sow doubt and discourage Jairus from believing for a miracle, as is the enemy’s strategy to make us shipwreck our faith. The messengers also reduced the Lord Jesus to “Teacher”, rather than acknowledging Him as Healer and Resurrector. Saints, we must guard against settling for a limited view of God’s power, and instead strive for a full understanding of who He is and all He can do – this is a lifelong pursuit. Hearing this report, Jesus immediately countered it, saying, “Do not be afraid; only believe” (vs.36a). Doubt weakens the effectiveness of our faith, so we must intentionally cultivate a mindset where we “only believe” by staying in the Word. Continuing on to Jairus’ home, Jesus “permitted no one to follow Him except Peter, James, and John the brother of James” (vs.36b). In the same way, we too must selectively surround ourselves with believers who are passionate about God, who inspire and strengthen our faith, fostering an environment where trust in God can flourish.

Upon arriving at Jairus’ house, Jesus said to those who gathered, “Why make this commotion and weep? The child is not dead, but sleeping” (vs.39). His words remind us to speak faith over fear when facing challenges, confessing God’s Word no matter the circumstances. Emotions are not in the realm of faith, so we should manage them so that our first instinct is to respond in faith. Jesus then removed the doubters, creating a faith-filled environment before praying for the girl (vs.40). Faith is contagious, but so is doubt. Jesus needed an atmosphere free of doubt for the supernatural to flow unhindered. When we surround ourselves with like-minded believers who fully trust in God’s Word, and have pure faith, we create space for God’s power to move freely. Jesus took the child by the hand and spoke directly to her, saying, “Talitha, cumi,” which translated, “Little girl, I say to you, arise” (vs.41). He spoke to her as if she could hear Him, demonstrating that speaking God’s Word over our situations with directness and conviction works the miraculous into our lives. Finally, after Jesus raised her from the dead, the little girl not only arose but also began to walk, leaving those present astonished (v.42). This was a double miracle: she was both raised from the dead and healed of whatever ailment had caused her to fall ill. Hallelujah! What a mighty God we serve! Church, let us continue to hold firmly to God’s Word and consistently speak it with authority, as Jesus did, building faith that activates the supernatural in our lives.

Prayer

Dear Heavenly Father, We thank You for Your life-changing Word, which strengthens our faith and deepens our convictions. Your Word opens our eyes to the principles and realities of Your kingdom. We choose to remember and act on Your Word, embracing Your promises with unwavering trust. In Jesus’ name, Amen!