Key Ideas
Faith Fact
I can have faith for others.
Faith Verse
1 Corinthians 16:13–14 (NLT)
Be on guard. Stand firm in the faith. Be courageous. Be strong. And do everything with love.
Question of the Day: Why is it important to rejoice when Jesus works in the lives of others?
Read about It
Read: Mark 2:1–12
The enormous faith of his friends made a huge difference in the paralyzed man’s life. But there were a group of people who weren’t happy about what Jesus did. Some religious teachers were angry because Jesus forgave the man’s sins. Rather than seeing the miracle taking place, they could only see what they thought was Jesus breaking the rules. They thought it was blasphemy that Jesus was doing what only God can do! These men didn’t realize Jesus was God, even when the man who was paralyzed got up and walked. While the faith of the friends led them to be amazed and praise God, the hard hearts of the religious teachers just caused them anger.
God is greater than we can imagine. He does miracles and wonders. He also goes beyond what we hope for and doesn’t go by our rules. The religious teachers spent a lot of time studying who they thought God was, but they never recognized Jesus when He was right before them. Having faith means that we trust God to do what only He can do. When we see miracles and God answering prayer, let’s celebrate as the first thing we do! Let’s rejoice in what God is doing in our friends, family, and us. This way, our faith in God grows and builds confidence in others!
Talk about It
| Question 1. How did the Pharisees react to Jesus forgiving the man’s sins?
Answer 1. “This is blasphemy!” (Mark 2:7)
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| Question 2. How did Jesus show His authority in this passage?
Answer 2. He forgave the man’s sins and healed him.
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| Question 3. How do you think the four friends reacted when Jesus healed their friend?
Answer 3. Answers will vary.
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| Question 4. How can you rejoice with others when their prayers are answered?
Answer 4. Answers will vary.
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| Question 5. Why is it important to rejoice when Jesus works in the lives of others?
Answer 5. Answers will vary. |
Pray about It
Dear God, in Your Word, it says to rejoice in You always. God, I am excited about what You are doing. I am expecting miracles and healing in my life and in the lives of my friends. I am ready to see You move in a mighty way. May I always rejoice in You—Your faithfulness, Your goodness, and Your mercy. God, Your power is so great. Thank You for loving me and working in me daily! Amen.