Today's Reading:
2 Kings 21; 2 Chronicles 33; John 4
Scripture
“And there was a royal official whose son was sick at Capernaum. When he heard that Jesus had come out of Judea into Galilee, he went to Him and was imploring Him to come down and heal his son; for he was at the point of death. So Jesus said to him, ‘Unless you people see signs and wonders, you simply will not believe.’ The royal official said to Him, ‘Sir, come down before my child dies.’ Jesus said to him, ‘Go; your son lives.’” (John 4:46-50)
Observation
The royal official had an urgent need for his son’s life — however, it seemed that Jesus was reticent at first. He even must have felt reprimanded when Jesus mentioned the unbelief that people had. The man could very well get downhearted. He could have gotten discouraged and given up. If he would have, his need would then be left unmet. However, he refused to give up! He was seemingly reprimanded, even stereotyped … but he refused to desist.
Application
How often when these things happen to me, my independence (or maybe my pride) kicks in and I think, “That’s fine. I don’t need your help …” But I must never do that with Jesus. I cannot give up when I don’t get my need met. I must persist. I need to let Jesus know my needs and what I would like Him to help me with … especially if it is a request on behalf of someone else who is not able to ask for himself. How often do present circumstances overwhelm us, and we panic? We must learn to never give up. I remember what Job said, “Even though He slay me, yet will I trust Him!” (Job 13:15) … That will be my sentiments exactly!
Prayer
Dear Father, there are so many new challenges that come my way and I will meet them head-on. Speak, Lord; thy servant is listening.