Church, this week we continue our exploration of spiritual warfare by looking at how faith works practically, drawing from Enoch’s testimony in Hebrews 11 and the account of Jairus in Mark 5.
Faith is not merely a feeling; it is a response to who God is and what He has spoken. Scripture tells us that “by faith Enoch was taken away so that he did not see death, ‘and was not found, because God had taken him;’ for before he was taken he had this testimony, that he pleased God” (Hebrews 11:5). Enoch’s testimony reminds us that faith begins with confidence in God and in our relationship with Him. Because faith works through love (Galatians 5:6), the more established we become in our understanding of God’s love for us, the more effectively we can exercise our faith to appropriate what He has provided by grace. This is why Scripture says, “he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him” (Hebrews 11:6). Our understanding of God’s love gives us confidence to approach Him, knowing that He has already given us all things pertaining to life and godliness through Christ Jesus (2 Peter 1:3).
Faith, however, also requires humility: the willingness to submit to God’s Word even when circumstances suggest otherwise. We see this in Jairus, a ruler of the synagogue who, despite his position and influence, fell at Jesus’ feet and pleaded for his daughter (vs.22). Jairus recognised that his status could not work the miracle his daughter needed, so he humbled himself and sought the Lord. He “begged Him earnestly, 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 approach was marked by both humility and expectation, believing that Jesus was able to heal his daughter. Yet as Jesus went with Jairus, “a great multitude followed Him and thronged Him” (vs.24), among whom was the woman with the issue of blood (vs.25-34). Jairus had an urgent need, but circumstances seemingly delayed the journey towards the miracle he so desperately needed. The ultimate test came when messengers arrived with the devastating news that his daughter had died, saying, “Why trouble the Teacher any further?” (vs.35). But Jesus immediately said to Jairus, “Do not be afraid; only believe” (v.36). Jesus understood that the report could sow doubt and unbelief, so He immediately gave him a Word to hold on to. Saints, there will be moments when our circumstances appear to contradict what we are believing God for. In those moments, we must not shipwreck our faith, but instead guard our hearts and refuse to allow those circumstances to determine what we believe about God. When contrary reports arise, we must respond quickly with His Word and continue holding fast to what He has spoken.
Jesus then took Peter, James, John, and the child’s parents with Him into the house (v.37), reminding us that our environment can influence our faith. We cannot continually expose ourselves to fear, hopelessness, and unbelief and expect our faith to remain strong. There are times when we must intentionally surround ourselves with people who will strengthen us in the Word and agree with us in faith. When Jesus entered the house, He said, “Why make this commotion and weep? The child is not dead, but sleeping” (vs.39). Jesus refused to let the natural circumstances dictate His response. Instead, He spoke according to the reality of God’s power. Likewise, we must learn to govern our thoughts, words, and responses by God’s Word, rather than by what we see and hear. We too must learn to manage our perception of situations, so we can respond in faith. Jesus then took the girl by the hand and said, “Little girl, I say to you, arise,” and immediately she arose and walked (vs.41-42). What a miracle! Not only was she brought back to life, but she was healed of the ailment that had brought her to the point of death.
Saints, faith is often proven in adversity. When contrary reports arise, let us guard our hearts and protect our faith environment, so that our response is aligned with God’s Word. What we see is not greater than what God has spoken. So let us continue to trust in Him until we see the manifestation of His promises in our lives. Hallelujah!
Prayer
Father, we thank You for giving us access to You through Jesus Christ. Help us grow in the revelation of Your love, so that our faith may become stronger and more effective. Teach us to guard our hearts against fear and unbelief, and trust Your Word even when circumstances appear contrary to Your promises. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
