Lenten Devotion – Have a Steadfast Faith
Day 4 – 8 Mar 2025
When this man heard that Jesus had come from Judea to Galilee, he went to him and asked him to come down and heal his son, for he was at the point of death. So Jesus said to him, “Unless you see signs and wonders you will not believe.” The official said to him, “Sir, come down before my child dies.” John 4:47-49
In this passage, two types of faith are mentioned.
The first is shown through the official: steadfast faith. He had travelled a long way to Galilee to ask Jesus to heal his son. Upon hearing Jesus say “Go; your son will live”, the official believed the word that Jesus spoke to him and went on his way. The lack of hesitation and doubt speaks volumes of his unwavering trust in Jesus’ words and faith in Him.
The second type of faith is shown through the other Jews Jesus was addressing: conditional faith. This faith is characterised by “first experiencing before trusting”. It is like a child demanding his parent try a Michelin-star dish first to make sure it’s good, before being willing to have a bite of his own. The chef may have a strong reputation, but his ability is still being questioned. Jesus is like this chef. There are countless stories of His healing power and wondrous works, yet some still demand for that first-person encounter to truly believe that He exists and is with us.
When faced with our greatest fears, what kind of faith do we want to have in God?
Personally, I want to have a steadfast faith in God. When I’m in need of a comforting presence, a patient listening ear or a miracle worker, I want God to be the first person I turn to with the confidence that He will carry me through whatever I’m going through.
During the time before my grandfather passed, I continually prayed for him to be healed and healthy again. It was only after his passing when I realised God did answer my prayer, as his healing and instant recovery will be found in heaven. On good or bad days, let us remember to turn our eyes to God for guidance and strength, trusting in all that He is doing in our lives without doubting.
Dorcas Lim🙏✝