Don’t Let Your Dark Days Define You
Jesus climbed into a boat and went back across the lake to his own town. Some people brought to Him a paralyzed man on a mat. Seeing their faith, Jesus said to the paralyzed man, “Take heart, son! Your sins are forgiven. – Matthew 9:1-2
Did you know that your faith could potentially change the trajectory of someone else’s life? Faith isn’t just reserved for the individual who possesses it. Our faith can move the heart of God in a way that other people in your life could receive miracles just because of your faith in God.
For the person who feels as if they have no faith or even “little” faith, that is okay. Find someone in your life who has rock-solid faith and stay close to them. Allow their faith to encourage you and show you what is possible for those who are willing to walk the road of faith. You never know; maybe your proximity to the one who is living by faith can cause a miracle to happen in your life.
Let’s take a second and break down the progression of the miracle that just took place. A paralyzed man was brought to Jesus and the Bible says Jesus saw their faith.
That one line is huge!
Jesus repeatedly confronted His own disciples about their little faith. These were the ones who had left everything to follow Him. They walked with Jesus. They watched the miracles. And still, there were moments when Jesus confronted their lack of faith.
Not this group. Jesus actually recognized their faith. That then led Jesus to speak to the situation of the paralyzed man. Notice He didn’t start with, “Stand up and walk.” He started with the root – lost hope and lost identity.
Jesus said, “Take heart.” Meaning, “I’m here. I know you didn’t think this moment would ever happen, but I’m here. You can relax now.” After “Take heart,” He called the man, “Son.”
Son! I know you’ve allowed your paralyzed body to define who you are, but I need you to know you are My son!
I need someone to understand: you are not your shortcomings. You are a son! You are a daughter! Don’t let your dark days define you. Don’t allow lack and disappointment to take root in your heart or mind.
After Jesus addressed the root of the paralyzed man’s issues, He finally tells him in Matthew 9:6 to: stand up, take your mat, and go on home – you are healed!
Maybe you’ve been so focused on the miracle you’re waiting for that you’ve missed what Jesus wants to speak to you before the miracle ever happens.
Take heart. You are a son. You are a daughter.
The miracle that you have been waiting on might come after God restores your hope and identity!