Faith that leads to wholeness is a story repeated throughout the Scriptures. Faith is essential to life, not just for eternity, but for transformation today. Scripture tells us in Ephesians 2:20 that Jesus Himself is the chief cornerstone. He is the foundation upon which everything else is built. True wholeness is not built on feelings, success, or circumstances. It is built on Christ. Hebrews 11:1 Faith shows the reality of what we hope for; it is the evidence of things we cannot see.”[1] Faith anchors us to Jesus. He is the One who makes us whole.
In Mark 2:4–5, four men brought their paralyzed friend to Jesus. When they could not enter the house because of the crowd, they climbed to the roof, dug through it, and lowered their friend down before Him. Their faith refused to stop at the obstacle. Mark 2:5 Seeing their faith, Jesus said to the paralyzed man, ‘My child, your sins are forgiven.” [2] Notice the connection: faith brought the man to Jesus, and He restored his soul. Jesus later healed his body. Faith was the pathway to wholeness in Jesus.
When I Struggle with My Faith
The four men in our story have incredible faith, but what if I struggle with my own faith? You might know that faith is the foundation of your life in an academic sense, but you don’t feel like you have a strong faith. What should you do?
Having doubts about our faith can throw our lives off balance. When we struggle with faith, it can feel like our purpose in life is on shaky ground. The good news is the Lord is always there to speak to us and confirm that we do have faith. He may not speak in an audible voice, but through the Holy Spirit, His word, or another way. Romans 8:16For his Spirit joins with our spirit to affirm that we are God’s children.[3] The Psalms are full of people crying out to God, so you are not alone as you ask the Lord to help you work through your struggle with faith.
Faith Propels Us Toward Wholeness
There is something powerful about faith. It moves us forward despite obstacles and carries us through uncertainty. It presses through the crowd and tears open roofs if necessary. The four friends did not fully understand what Jesus would do, but they trusted Him enough to act. Their faith positioned their friend for a miracle.
In the same way, our faith positions us before Christ, where transformation happens. Romans 8:14 For all who are led by the Spirit of God are children of God.” [4] Jesus is our good shepherd and desires to lead His sheep when they struggle, doubt, need guidance, or reassurance of faith to make them whole. Philippians 4:19 And this same God who takes care of me will supply all your needs from his glorious riches, which have been given to us in Christ Jesus. [5]
To find out more about faith that leads to wholeness, listen here:
https://podpoint.com/light-of-christ-church-podcast/made-whole-by-forgiveness
[1-5] Tyndale House Publishers. (2015). Holy Bible: New Living Translation. Tyndale House Publishers.