Faith That Perseveres
Morning: Exodus 1-3
Evening: Matthew 15:21-39
The story of Moses in Exodus 1-3 reminds us that God is never distant from our pain. When the Israelites groaned under the weight of slavery, God said, “I have surely seen the affliction of my people… and I have heard their cry” (Exodus 3:7). In Matthew 15:21-39, we meet a Canaanite woman who boldly cried out to Jesus, refusing to be discouraged until He granted her request. Her faith is a powerful example for us today. Just as she persisted in seeking Jesus, we too should approach God with sincere and contrite hearts, especially when seeking His forgiveness and mercy.
We need God in every moment. Without Him, we are nothing. The Canaanite woman understood this deeply—she knew she had no claim to God’s promises as an outsider, but her faith and humility caught Jesus’ attention. Her story reminds us that when we seek God with a heart full of faith and repentance, He hears us. Let us never forget our dependence on Him, and may we always approach Him like this woman, trusting fully in His grace and power.
Key Insights:
- God Hears the Cry of the Humble: Just as God heard the Israelites in their affliction, He hears us when we come to Him in humility and repentance (Exodus 3:7).
- Faith and Humility Open the Door for God’s Mercy: The Canaanite woman’s response, “Truth, Lord: yet the dogs eat of the crumbs which fall from their masters’ table” (Matthew 15:27), reflects her humble and unwavering faith.
- Our Need for God Is Absolute: Like the woman seeking healing for her daughter, we must recognize that without God, we are helpless. Jesus said, “For without me ye can do nothing” (John 15:5).
- God’s Grace Extends Beyond Our Worthiness: Neither the Israelites nor the Canaanite woman deserved God’s favor, but He responded because of His mercy.
- Persistent Faith Brings Breakthrough: The woman’s perseverance teaches us to never give up in seeking God, even when the answer seems delayed.
Connection to Other Scripture:
Psalm 51:17 echoes the heart posture of the Canaanite woman: “The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit: a broken and a contrite heart, O God, thou wilt not despise.” This verse reminds us that God values sincerity and humility when we approach Him.
Questions to Reflect On:
- How can the faith of the Canaanite woman inspire you to approach God in prayer?
- Are there areas in your life where you need to acknowledge your dependence on God?
- When you seek forgiveness, do you come to God with a contrite and humble heart?
- How can you remain persistent in faith even when the answers to your prayers seem delayed?
- In what ways can you demonstrate faith and humility in your daily walk with God?
A Prayer for Today:
Gracious Lord, thank You for Your mercy and faithfulness. Like the Canaanite woman, I come to You today with a sincere and contrite heart, seeking Your forgiveness and grace. Help me to recognize how deeply I need You in every moment of my life. Without You, I am nothing. Strengthen my faith and teach me to persevere in prayer, even when the road feels long. Thank You for hearing my cries and for the assurance that Your love is unchanging. May my life reflect Your grace and mercy to others. In Jesus’ name, Amen.