This conversation is one of the... - All The Good Seed Daily Devotionals for 2025

If you can do anything, have compassion on us and help us. Jesus said to him, If you can believe, all things are possible to him who believes.
Mark 9:22.23.

This conversation is one of the most moving in the New Testament. A man brought his only son, who was demon-possessed, to the Lord Jesus. The violent demon often cast the boy into water or fire from childhood on. The father recognised how helpless he was; so his request, "If you can do anything, have compassion on us and help us" is understandable.

At first sight we should judge that the man had turned to the right person. Jesus alone could help him. But Jesus had detected a trace of doubt in the man's plea. He had said, "If you can do anything."

The Lord responded with an "If" of His own: "If you can believe." He thus pointed out that it was not a matter of His ability, but of the man's faith. So He explained to the father: "All things are possible to him who believes."

The father did not defend himself, but accepted the correction, saying, "Lord, I believe; help my unbelief!" Though embarrassing for the man, it is pleasing to hear his honest reply. Then the Lord cast the demon out and gave the boy back to his father.

We may well act similarly when we are in trouble. We ask for help, if it is possible. And God gently gives us to understand that He will not respond. We must count on God's clear promises by faith, however weak it is. By trusting Him who alone is omnipotent and able to do anything, we find rest and peace and experience His help.

Today's reading: Leviticus 25:39-55 · Psalms 71:1-8