What Jesus Did! 'Acknowledging Great Faith' — Matthew 15:25-28

Sunday, July 25, 2021

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But [the Gentile woman who asked Jesus to cast a demon out of her daughter] came and worshiped him, pleading again, "Lord, help me!"

Jesus responded, "It isn't right to take food from the children and throw it to the dogs."

She replied, "That's true, Lord, but even dogs are allowed to eat the scraps that fall beneath their masters' table."

"Dear woman," Jesus said to her, "your faith is great. Your request is granted." And her daughter was instantly healed.

— Matthew 15:25-28 NLT

Key Thought

In our time, it seems that everyone feels as if the world owes them something — a living, a break, a decent wage, etc. In contrast, here was a woman who understood grace and truly believed in Jesus. Immanuel, God with us, stood before her. Her daughter needed his care. This woman would do and endure anything to receive grace from Jesus’ ministry. Even though Jesus' earthly ministry focused primarily on Jewish people, here was a woman who stood in sharp contrast to the Jewish religious leaders who would not believe. Her faith transcended race and plans. Jesus healed her daughter just as she believed he would. What especially touches me is that Jesus consistently affirmed those who had faith by letting them know he noticed and appreciated their faith. There are at least two things that I can do: not let race or culture stand in the way of salvation for all people, and let folks know how much I appreciate their faith.

Today's Prayer

Dear Lord, God Almighty, open my heart to other people. Give me a deeper appreciation of their faith and what they had to overcome to believe. Give me a generous heart to share with others your grace and my admiration for the good things in their lives. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.

Related Scripture Readings

  • Revelation 7:9-10
  • 1 Thessalonians 1:2-3
  • Matthew 9:20-22

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Illustration

Illustration of Matthew 15:25-28 NLT — "your faith is great. Your request is granted."

About This Devotional

What Jesus Did! is a series of one-year devotional guides through each gospel, using one short scripture passage each day and following the Gospel in sequential order. Each devotional consists of a scripture passage and a reflection and a prayer which open up the day's scripture and show how it challenges you to live for Jesus.

What Jesus Did! is written by Phil Ware and is available in book form.

Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007, 2013, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.

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