THIS IS A TEST

Matthew 15:28 — Then Jesus answered and said to her, “O woman, great is your faith! Let it be to you as you desire.” And her daughter was healed from that very hour.

Perhaps you are familiar with the account leading up to this verse. The woman in the story was a Canaanite, not an Israelite—she was not considered one of God’s chosen people. If you read Matthew 15:21–28, you will discover that Jesus initially resisted her request to heal her severely demon-possessed daughter. However, her faith and persistence proved irresistible to Him. She passed the test, and Jesus rewarded her faith!

A similar kind of resolve is illustrated in the story of a young nurse completing her first full day in a hospital operating room:

"You've only removed eleven sponges, Doctor," she said to the surgeon. "We used twelve." "I removed them all," the doctor declared. "We'll close the incision now." "No," the nurse objected. "We used twelve sponges." "I'll take full responsibility," the surgeon said grimly. "Suture!" "You can't do that!" the nurse blazed. "Think of the patient!" The surgeon smiled, lifted his foot, and revealed the twelfth sponge. "You'll do," he said.

I see a strong connection between the Canaanite woman and this rookie nurse. Both were deeply passionate about what they believed, and both steadfastly passed the test put before them.

The Christian life is filled with such testing grounds—yet these tests are really just opportunities to build testimonies to the glory of God! Whatever situation you find yourself in today, take it before Him. Stand firm in faith, believing that Jesus holds the answer. You will pass the test with flying colors, and your faith will surely be rewarded!

Every blessing,

Tom