I was just reading a passage from Mark 9 about the healing of a boy with an evil spirit. So Jesus sees a man arguing with the disciples because the man's son is possessed by an evil spirit and the disciples couldn't drive the spirit out. Jesus tells them to bring the boy to him and so they do. As soon as the spirit saw Jesus, it immediately threw the boy into a convulsion (basically like a seizure) and the boy fell to the ground and rolled around, foaming at the mouth. Jesus asked the boy's father, "How long has he been like this?" The man told Jesus, "From childhood. 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." I found Jesus' reply pretty funny. Jesus said, " 'If you can'?! Everything is possible for him who believes." I can just see Jesus' expression. He's probably saying in his mind 'Of course I can do anything! Who do you think I am?' But this next part really stood out to me. Immediately the boy's father exclaimed, "I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief!" And the story goes on and Jesus casts the spirit out.
When Jesus told the man that everything is possible if he believes, the man's response was a desperate one. One of faith and trust and also love. He puts his faith in Jesus and says "I do believe" But then he puts his trust in Jesus and asks him to help him overcome his unbelief. See, the man knew that in his heart there was unbelief in Jesus power. Yet the man was willing to ask Jesus for help. It shows that he has a hungry, desperate and humble heart for Jesus. He didn't say "I do believe, but only if you heal my son first." This guy was totally desiring Jesus' love because he realized that he really didn't have a trusting relationship with Jesus.
Are you like this man who is desperate for God and wants him to help you overcome your unbelief?
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