More about the topic
Faith
We can learn a lot from what we read about Jesus in the Gospels. He met people who would not believe, and people who had such great faith, that they were convinced that if only Jesus said a word, their loved ones would be healed, or they would receive help and strength for what they needed.
In this episode of “God’s children,” we meet a girl who has experienced a difficult day at school. In the country where she lives, it isn’t so common to believe in Jesus, and the other children in her class think that believing is stupid. She wants to stand up for her faith in Jesus, but it isn’t very easy. She can’t prove anything or explain everything she believes in a logical way.
She remembers that her grandma used to pick a “mannacorn,” and now was surely a good time to do just that. She gets the verse in 2 Chronicles 16:9. After that, she begins to read more about Jesus and how He could help all those who believe. But only those who chose to believe were allowed to experience Jesus’ miracles. This story strengthens her to hold on and not be embarrassed by her faith. Jesus follows her from heaven and strengthens her with His power. When she chooses to believe, she also experiences it.
Questions for discussion
Q: What did Jesus say when he heard about the officer’s faith, when he said that Jesus only had to say one word, and his servant would be healed?
A: Jesus was amazed when he heard this. He turned to the crowd that followed him, saying, “I tell you, I have not found such great faith, not even in Israel.”
Q: What can be a help if you feel small and weak in faith?
A: It helps to read in the Bible. For example, that verse in 2 Chronicles 16:9. It can also be a very great help to talk to someone older who has had many experiences with Jesus and who can tell how He has helped them and heard their prayers. It also helps to pray yourself, and when you experience that Jesus hears your prayers, you are strengthened in faith. Jesus sees us and knows what is best for us, so sometimes you ask for something, but Jesus doesn’t give you exactly what you thought was best. But you can be absolutely sure that He has heard you and found the best solution for you. Then you get what you need, and learn more about His will!
Q: The Pharisees wanted Jesus to perform signs and miracles for them. Why wouldn’t Jesus do that for them?
A: Because they WOULD NOT believe.
Bible verses fitting the topic
For the eyes of the Lord run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to show himself strong on behalf of those whose heart is loyal to him.
2 Chronicles 16:9
When Jesus heard these things, He marveled at him, and turned around and said to the crowd that followed Him, “I say to you, I have not found such great faith, not even in Israel.”
Luke 7:9
“Because you have so little faith,” He replied. “Assuredly, I say to you, If you have faith as a mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there!’ —and it will move, and nothing will be impossible for you.”
Matthew 17:20
