When your faith feels insufficient

“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.” “‘If you can’?” said Jesus. “Everything is possible for one who believes.” Immediately the boy’s father exclaimed, “I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief!” (Mark 9:21-24 NIV)

 In the above passage, Jesus asked the father of a demon possessed boy some questions.The desperate father used faithless words in response, saying, “If you can do anything.” And Jesus responded with, “If you can’?” ... “Everything is possible for one who believes.” Then the father exclaimed, “I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief!” This father was feeling exactly like many of us do occasionally, when we feel insufficient in our faith. 

 Faith is confidence

 “Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.” (Heb. 11:1 NIV)

 We live by faith

 “For we live by faith, not by sight.” (2 Cor. 5:7 NIV)

 It is impossible to please God without faith

 “And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him.” (Heb. 11:6 NIV)

 Faith is tested

“Because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.“ (James 1:3 NIV)

Faith involves your heart and mouth

“For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you profess your faith and are saved.” (Rom. 10:10 NIV)

Therefore…

“I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love.” (Eph. 3:16-17 NIV)

Quote:

“God-glorifying faith is a future-oriented confidence in God’s integrity and power and wisdom to follow through on all His promises.” - John Piper, Future Grace