Believe - surrender

John 4: 43 - 54

The man believed the word that Jesus spoke ....and went his way

Have you ever 'heard' Jesus' promise about something or someone you are concerned about? Was it easy to 'believe' and 'go on your way', that is, 'trust' his words, even though what he said had not yet been fulfilled? This sounds like 'blind faith' to some people - a stance that would be very difficult to accept. The official actually showed much faith by not insisting that Jesus go to his house. Jesus did challenge him by saying that "unless you see signs and wonders you will not believe". And most surprisingly, the Gentile official proved that he could believe even before any sign or wonder had occurred.

This was not a long drawn matter. The official's son was healed by the time he arrived home. What if nothing seems to happen for a long time? Reality tells us that many who are ill are not physically healed for long periods, even years and years. What if Jesus promises that all would be well? Would you or I be able to hold on to the loving promise that he will bring all things to a good result, even if it takes many, many years?

I think the way is to 'believe' that he has our good at heart - always, and to 'surrender' all our anxieties and fears for healing - that comes first - before being able to trust him with the situation or person we bring to his attention.

To live like this would enable one to wait patiently for the Lord, to wait until he lifts us out of the pit , sets our feet upon a rock and puts a song in our mouths (Psalm 40).