This is the desperate cry of a dad! From the time his son was a little boy, he was demon possessed. We don't know how old he was when all this happened, but we can be assured that it had been going on for years. This father is just like us... he would go to unbelievable measures to keep his children safe. In his case, however, it was VERY difficult. I'm wondering if he thought, "What will happen if I'm not here to pull my son out of the fire or the water the next time the demons throw him in?" He tried everything... doctors, counsel, prayers, anointing oil. EVERYTHING! But nothing worked. In fact, it had gotten worse.
Then one day, he hears that Jesus' disciples were in town. "Oh my goodness! I must get my son to them. If anyone can help him, they can." But they couldn't do it. Then Jesus arrives on the scene. He wants to know what's going on. And now, in front of Jesus, the father explains what's happening. The father pleads with Jesus, "If you can do anything, please help us." Jesus responded, "If you can! All things are possible for one who believes." That's when the desperate cry comes out, "Lord, I believe, but help me in my unbelief!"
In other words, I believe that You are a miracle worker... I've heard so many stories. I believe you can heal the blind, make the lame to walk, and heal diseases. I believe you can walk on water, raise the dead, and turn water into wine. But there's a part of me that still doubts, especially concerning my son. These doubts have left me wondering, confused, and at times, feeling hopeless. So, Lord, please help me in my unbelief. And Jesus casts the demon out of his beloved son. He has his son back.
I think many of us are exactly where this father was. We believe, but we still have a few doubts. We've been praying for such a long time. But we haven't seen any change. Does God care? Has God heard my prayers for my loved ones, for my situation? Is God able?
Have you gotten desperate enough to cry out, like this father? God loves a desperate prayer of a mom or dad, a grandma or grandpa. God doesn't expect us to fully believe... even a little faith as small as a mustard seed is found acceptable. In desperation, God wants us to come to Him. "Lord, I believe, but help me in my unbelief! "Lord, I need you to come to my rescue!" "Lord, do whatever it takes!" What is your desperate cry today? Go and stand before Jesus and just cry out. Name the person by name. Tell Him what is troubling you. Don't let pride keep you from a desperate cry. Let this father's heart and plea encourage you today.