Let's urgently lift up Genesis
, the only believer in their family, against plots and spiritual warfare. "For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms" (Eph 6:12). Pray for God's protection and deliverance. "No weapon forged against you will prevail" (Isa 54:17). Trusting God's shield and victory! 
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**Then Jesus left Galilee and went north to the region of Tyre. He didn't want anyone to know which house he was staying in, but he couldn't keep it a secret. Right away a woman who had heard about him came and fell at his feet. Her little girl was possessed by an evil spirit, and she begged him to cast out the demon from her daughter.
Since she was a Gentile, born in Syrian Phoenicia, ...
—Mark 7:24-26 NLT
Jesus and his leading followers are still in need of rest. The crowds have pressed upon them repeatedly. However, Jesus' reputation has now grown, and he is well known even far away from his home and the center of ministry. Gentiles have heard of his power and know their need for help. In this context — Jesus' and the disciples' deep need to withdraw to be alone and the seeking hearts of Gentiles — a woman comes to Jesus with a deep concern on her heart. Her daughter is possessed by an evil spirit. The Phoenician people had a proud, but very pagan, heritage (from a Jewish point of view). They had often been bitter enemies with the children of Israel. For this woman to fall at the feet of a Jew, especially one of "no noble rank," was indeed a sign of desperation and humility. Coming from the Phoenician culture that produced Jezebel and a host of condemning words in the Bible because of their Baal worship, here is a woman who shows dependence on and worship to the Savior of the world, who also happens to be Jewish. Not even the distance — geographical and racial — could keep Jesus' saving power from being known!
O God, please help us awaken and realize that what we have to share with the world is Jesus — not our technology, our culture, or our knowledge. While many other things are good to share and I know we need to be generous in sharing them, please help us to be more passionate about sharing Jesus both in our teaching and in our conduct. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.
Ⓒ 1996-2024 Heartlight, Inc. This material may not be reproduced in part or whole for commercial use without written consent. What Jesus Did! is written by Phil Ware and is available in book form. Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007, 2013, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
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Since she was a Gentile, born in Syrian Phoenicia, ...
—Mark 7:24-26 NLT
Key Thought
Jesus and his leading followers are still in need of rest. The crowds have pressed upon them repeatedly. However, Jesus' reputation has now grown, and he is well known even far away from his home and the center of ministry. Gentiles have heard of his power and know their need for help. In this context — Jesus' and the disciples' deep need to withdraw to be alone and the seeking hearts of Gentiles — a woman comes to Jesus with a deep concern on her heart. Her daughter is possessed by an evil spirit. The Phoenician people had a proud, but very pagan, heritage (from a Jewish point of view). They had often been bitter enemies with the children of Israel. For this woman to fall at the feet of a Jew, especially one of "no noble rank," was indeed a sign of desperation and humility. Coming from the Phoenician culture that produced Jezebel and a host of condemning words in the Bible because of their Baal worship, here is a woman who shows dependence on and worship to the Savior of the world, who also happens to be Jewish. Not even the distance — geographical and racial — could keep Jesus' saving power from being known!
Today's Prayer
O God, please help us awaken and realize that what we have to share with the world is Jesus — not our technology, our culture, or our knowledge. While many other things are good to share and I know we need to be generous in sharing them, please help us to be more passionate about sharing Jesus both in our teaching and in our conduct. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.
Related Scripture Readings
Ⓒ 1996-2024 Heartlight, Inc. This material may not be reproduced in part or whole for commercial use without written consent. What Jesus Did! is written by Phil Ware and is available in book form. Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007, 2013, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
Continue reading...
