Only by Prayer April 10, 2018

Read: Mark 9:14–29 Bible in a Year: 1 Samuel 15–16; Luke 10:25–42 Everything is possible for one who believes.—Mark 9:23 My friend called me late one night during her cancer treatment. Grieved by her uncontrollable sobs, I soon added my own tears and a silent prayer. What am I supposed to do, Lord? Her wails squeezed my heart. I couldn’t stop her pain, fix her situation, or find one intelligible word of encouragement. But I knew who could help. As I wept with my friend, stumbling through a prayer, I whispered repeatedly, “Jesus. Jesus. Jesus.” Her cries quieted to sniffs and whimpers, until her breathing slowed. Her husband’s voice startled me. “She’s asleep,” he said. “We’ll call tomorrow.” I hung up, weeping prayers into my pillow. The apostle Mark shares a story of another person who wanted to help his loved one. A desperate father brought his suffering son to Jesus (Mark 9:17). Doubt clung to his plea, as he reiterated the impossibility of their circumstances (vv. 20-22) and acknowledged his need for Jesus to empower his belief (v. 24). The father and son experienced freedom, hope, and peace when Jesus stepped in and took control (vv. 25-27). When loved ones are hurting, it’s natural to want to do the right things and say the perfect words. But Christ is the only One who can truly help us. When we call on the name of Jesus, He can enable us to believe and rely on the power of His presence. —Xochitl Dixon Jesus. Jesus. Jesus. Oh, how we need You, Jesus. Share your prayer request and pray for others at YourDailyBread.org. The name of Jesus is the powerful prayer that leads us into His mighty presence. Share your thoughts on today’s devotional on Facebook or odb.org.

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