Day 31: Jesus meets a man who struggles to believe
Do you ever wish you had more faith in Jesus? Maybe you look at other people and they seem to have an easier time believing Jesus truly is the Son of God who died for them. Sometimes, you find it really hard to trust that Jesus is the King of all the universe. Today, we’ll meet a man who did believe in Jesus, but also knew he needed help with his unbelief.
When Jesus, Peter, James, and John came down from the mountain, who did they find there (v. 14)?
How did the people react when they saw Jesus (v. 15)?
What question did Jesus ask (v. 16)?
Who answered (v. 17)?
This dad had tried to bring his son to Jesus, but as Jesus wasn’t there, he asked the disciples to drive out the spirit. Were His disciples able to help (v. 18)?
How does Jesus describe the generation of people around Him (v. 19)?
A generation is a group of people who are roughly the same age. In our culture, we give names to different generations. If you were born in 2012 or earlier, you’re classed as “Gen Z.” If you were born after 2012, you’re “Gen Alpha.” Jesus calls His generation “Gen Unbelieving!”
Jesus is frustrated by the unbelief of those around Him, but He wants to help the boy. What did the spirit do to the boy when he saw Jesus (v. 20)?
How long did the boy’s father say his son had been suffering like this (v. 21)?
The man says to Jesus, “If you can do anything, take pity on us and help” (v. 22). How does Jesus respond (v. 23)?
How does the man respond to Jesus (v. 24)?
This man’s response has become very famous because it expresses how many Christians feel. We do believe in Jesus. But we also know how weak our faith can be and how much we need Jesus to help us believe. If that’s how you feel sometimes, you’re not alone!
What does Jesus do after the man says he believes and asks for help with his unbelief (v. 25)?
What happens to the boy when the spirit comes out of him (v. 26)?
What did Jesus do to the boy who looked like he was dead (v. 27)?
What did the disciples ask Jesus when they were alone with Him (v. 28)?
How did Jesus respond (v. 29)?
Prayer is powerful, so let’s pray!
If you’re trusting in Jesus, thank Him for your belief and ask Him to help you in the times when you struggle to believe He really is the Son of God and that He can do truly incredible things. If you don’t think you’re trusting in Jesus yet, ask Him to help you with your unbelief and give you faith in Him!