Proper 13 B - Mark 5:21-43 - The Importance of Faith - Andrew Murray

"Don't be afraid. Just trust me."
Mark 5:36

"This is a lesson of the greatest importance. When praying alone in the presence of God, we must trust implicitly in the love God and in the power of the Lord Jesus. Take time to ask yourself this question: Is my heart full of a steadfast faith in God's love? If this is not the case, focus on this before you begin to pray. Faith does not come of itself. Consider quietly how impossible it is for God to lie. He is ready with infinite love to give you His blessing. Take some text of Scripture in which God's power, faithfulness, and love are revealed. Apply the words and say: 'Yes, Lord, I will pray with firm faith in You.'

It is a mistake to limit the word 'faith' to the forgiveness of sins and to our acceptance as children of God. Faith includes far more. We must have faith in all that God is willing to do for us. We must have faith according to our special needs. Jesus Christ gives grace for each new day, and our faith must reach out according to the needs of the day.

When you enter into the Father's presence and before you begin to pray, ask yourself: 'Do I really believe that God is here with me and that the Lord Jesus will help me pray?' Jesus often taught His disciples how indispensable faith was to true prayer. He will teach us as well."

From Teach me to Pray, published by Barbour Publishing, Inc.