Faith comes in all shapes and sizes. Some have great faith – the ability to believe for big things without needing anything more than the Word of God to stand on. Others have great faith, but need some additional action – they need the prayer of another to join with them or hands outstretched toward someone or something. Some yet have the faith to put their faith in others – while their own prayers may not seem enough, to have someone else pray over them will surely bring a miracle to pass. And some struggle with their faith – they know the truth of God’s Word yet still find it difficult to believe.

What does your faith look like?

Reading Matthew 8, we see examples of faith in many forms.

Suddenly, a man with leprosy approached Jesus. He knelt before him worshiping. “Lord,” The man said, “if you want to, you can make me well again.” Jesus touched him. “I want to,” he said. “Be healed!” And instantly the leprosy disappeared.

Matthew 8:2-3 (NLT)

The leper had enough faith to stand before Jesus and request his healing. All he needed was a touch.

When Jesus arrived in Capernaum, a Roman officer came and pleaded with him, “Lord, my young servant lies in bed, paralysed and racked with pain.”

Jesus said, “I will come and heal him.”

Then the officer said, “Lord, I am not worthy to have you come into my home. Just say the word from where you are, and my servant will be healed!

Matthew 8:5-8 (NLT)

The Roman officer had great faith in Jesus. This man needed no physical assurance, but because of his own position as a man with authority, he knew that Jesus’ word would be enough.

Suddenly, a terrible storm came up, with waves breaking into the boat. But Jesus was sleeping. The disciples went to him and woke him up, shouting, “Lord, save us! We’re going to drown!”

And Jesus answered, “Why are you afraid? You have so little faith!” Then he stood up and rebuked the wind and waves, and suddenly all was calm.

Matthew 8:25-26 (NLT)

One would think that those who were closest to Jesus, the ones who were with him day and night for years, would be the ones to be able to exercise great faith. Often, though, it’s those who are the closest to the situation who cannot see it clearly. Jesus’ disciples had just witnessed many miracles by the hand of their Teacher, yet they didn’t have the faith to weather the storm.

One thing is common with every kind of faith we see here – Jesus was willing. He said to the leper, “I want to.” In none of these examples did Jesus hum and haw over what He would do. Even the weakest faith produced a miracle.

So don’t lose heart. Don’t lose your faith – even the smallest measure moves Jesus. He wants to move on your behalf.

Daily Bible reading: Genesis 23-24, Matthew 8