Matthew: Healing in His PresenceSample

The Faith/Miracle Connection

Calloused or hardened hearts are at the core of this passage. Jesus explains why he preaches in parables speaking words from Isaiah’s prophecy:

“For this people’s heart has become calloused; they hardly hear with their ears, and they have closed their eyes. Otherwise they might see with their eyes, hear with their ears, understand with their hearts and turn, and I would heal them.”

Matthew 13:15

Jesus mentions the multiple factors involved in true understanding of the gospel, eyes, ears and heart. Healing is brought forth from a heart of faith and belief - Jesus later preaches in his hometown of Nazareth, but people couldn't wrap their minds around the fact that this son of the local carpenter can perform miracles. In fact, it says they took offense at Him. He had done nothing wrong to them, but they just couldn't believe that Mary and Joseph's son might actually be the much-awaited Messiah. And because of their lack of faith, Jesus did not do many miracles there. That's just sad. Can you imagine missing out on your miracle because of your biased opinions?

There is a strong connection between our faith and healing. It says in Hebrews 6:11, “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.” Where does faith come from? Romans 10:17 reminds us, “So then faith comes by hearing and hearing by the word of God.” 1 Corinthians 12:9 says that such faith is granted as a gift of the Spirit.

That's a gift I want! The gift of faith! I never want to miss out on my own miracle because of my lack of faith. Oh Lord, help my unbelief!

Questions:

1. How might your preconceived ideas or doubts be limiting your ability to receive the healing God wants to bring?

2. Have you ever missed out on a miracle or blessing because your heart was closed or your faith was weak? What might it take to open your heart fully?

3. What practical steps can you take to nurture and grow the gift of faith, especially when healing feels uncertain or unlikely?