Almost But Not Altogether

“[He] cried out... with tears, Lord, I believe; help thou mine unbelief”

 

It is not unusual in scripture for two opposing entities to reside in the same dwelling. In fact, it is the norm. For example, “I find then a law, that, when I would do good, evil is present with me.”  After all, how would one know they had real peace if turmoil were not present? Or be victorious, without a battle?

 

Half of this heartbroken man believed Jesus could answer his prayer, while the other half questioned, would He answer his prayer. He needed Christ’s help to bring the one half into agreement with the better half. So he prays earnestly that Jesus will enable him in that part that is lacking. He was honest to admit imperfections in his faith.

 

This brief prayer is for all of us who are almost, but not altogether. I think our dear Lord purposely leaves this void in our faith that we may realize our great need for Him, even in our faith. You know, “Without ME ye can do nothing.” And that includes believing.

 

Know for a certainty, our Savior understands the faith and fear part of our lives (Heb.5:7). C.S. Lewis explains it best, I think. “One can believe in anesthetics and yet feel in a panic when they actually put the mask over your face.”