Day 284 – Chronological Bible in One Year Devotional -
In today’s reading (Mark 7:24–37; Matthew 15:21–39; Mark 8:1–21; Matthew 16:1–12), Jesus again reveals the beauty of persistent faith and the danger of spiritual forgetfulness.
First, we meet the Syrophoenician woman—a Gentile mother who pleaded for her daughter’s healing. Though Jesus initially appeared to test her faith, her humble and unyielding response touched His heart. She believed beyond boundaries, proving that faith transcends race, culture, and status. Jesus commended her, saying, “Woman, you have great faith!” Her story reminds us that true faith is not deterred by delay or discouragement; it presses on until the answer comes.
Next, we see another miraculous feeding—the feeding of four thousand. Despite witnessing the earlier feeding of the five thousand, the disciples still questioned how to provide food in the wilderness. Jesus patiently performed the miracle again, revealing His compassion and divine sufficiency. Yet, soon after, they worried about having no bread in the boat! Jesus warned them, “Beware of the yeast of the Pharisees and Sadducees”—a call to guard against unbelief and hypocrisy that corrupts faith.
The pattern is clear: faith must be both persistent and remembering. We are to hold fast to what God has done, trust Him in present needs, and beware of the “yeast” of doubt that forgets His power. When we remember His past faithfulness, our hearts are strengthened for new challenges.
Personal Reflection: Do you easily forget God’s past provisions when facing new challenges? Today, choose to remember His goodness. Crave a faith like the Syrophoenician woman—humble, relentless, and full of confidence that Jesus can meet every need, no matter the circumstance.
Prayer: Lord Jesus, give me a faith that endures every test and remembers Your faithfulness. Deliver me from doubt and the yeast of unbelief. Help me trust You in every situation, knowing You are the same compassionate Savior yesterday, today, and forever. Strengthen my heart to believe always. Amen.
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