Text: Matthew 15:21-28
Memory Verse: “Then Jesus answered and said to her, ‘O woman, great is your faith! Let it be to you as you desire.’ And her daughter was healed from that very hour” (Matthew 15:28).
What you hear often results in discouragement, if you allow it. The nameless Canaanite woman had a problem which she believed Jesus could solve. Her sick daughter needed help. She came to Jesus and, like blind Bartimaeus, would not keep quiet (Mark 10:46&47). On three occasions, words that could have discouraged or distracted her were said
by the disciples and Jesus, but she was not moved. She was focused on her mission of getting help for her daughter from the only One who could help.
The persistent widow in Luke 18:1-7, also could not be dissuaded from seeking the justice she believed she deserved. The unjust judge had no choice but to help her because she was going to wear him out by her persistence. Jairus, one of the rulers of the synagogue dared to hope against hope, despite hearing the discouraging news that his daughter was dead. He held unto Jesus’ words that he should not fear, but believe (Mark 5:22,35&36).
People comment about issues they often know nothing about without thinking of the impact of their words on others. Sometimes, they are insensitive to the feelings of others and do not put themselves in their shoes.
God, however, is not like that. Jesus reached out in love and compassion in all the examples mentioned above.
Do not allow mindless comments by others to deter you from achieving your God inspired goals. If God has said it, hold on to it.
Prayer Points:
1. Help me to trust You enough to ignore words meant to discourage me, O Lord.
2. Father, forgive me for my mindless utterances about others.
