What Jesus Did! 'Faithful Friends' — Mark 2:3-5

Sunday, January 31, 2016

Some people brought a paralyzed (crippled) man to Jesus. Four men were carrying the paralyzed man. But they could not bring the man to Jesus because the house was full of people. So the men went to the roof above Jesus and made a hole in the roof. Then they lowered the mat with the paralyzed man on it. Jesus saw that these men had much faith. So Jesus said to the paralyzed man, "Young man, your sins are forgiven."
— Mark 2:3-5 NLT
Illustration of Mark 2:3-5 NLT — "Young man, your sins are forgiven."

Key Thought

Notice what is the basis of this miracle. "Seeing THEIR faith ..." The four men were the ones who helped make this miracle possible. It wasn't just their willingness to help the man, but it was their faith that if they got their friend to Jesus then the Lord would do great things for him. They were right. The question, however, is whether or not we will be so bold in our faith with our friends.

Today's Prayer

Father, please strengthen my faith and use me to bring those who are broken, lost, and hurting to experience the gracious and powerful gift of your Son's love. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Related Scripture Readings

  • Mark 9:20-24
  • Matthew 8:5-10
  • Mark 5:35-42

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About This Devotional

What Jesus Did is a one-year devotional guide through the gospels, using one short passage each day and following the Gospel in consecutive order. Each devotional consists of a passage, reflection and a prayer which opens up the day's scripture and shows how it challenges you to live for Jesus.

What Jesus Did! is written by Phil Ware.

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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