Is Anything Really Possible With Genuine Faith?
Pathways That Lead to Radiant Living
I’ve been thinking about verse 9:23b in the Gospel of Mark: "Anything is possible if a person believes" (NLT). This verse stands out and stares us right in the face. Many instances in our daily lives allow us to demonstrate faith in God to change circumstances for a more positive outcome. But how do we understand the word, “Anything” in this verse?
This verse is part of a larger story in which Jesus heals a boy possessed by an unclean spirit. The boy's father asks Jesus to help, saying, “If you can do anything, take pity on us and help us.” Jesus responds, "If you can? "Anything is possible if a person believes."
Let’s examine the verse further to understand its full meaning and application.
Meaning of the Verse:
Faith as a Catalyst: This statement emphasizes the power of belief and trust in God. It suggests that faith enables individuals to overcome challenges that might otherwise seem insurmountable. Belief doesn’t necessarily mean that every desire will be fulfilled, but trust in God's power allows for incredible possibilities.
God’s Power: The phrase underscores the idea that God is omnipotent, (all powerful) and through Him, there are no limits. When a person believes and aligns their faith with God’s will, (and this is the key) they open themselves up to His miraculous intervention. 1John 5:14,15.
Contextual Understanding:
In the story, Jesus rebukes the crowd and the disciples for their lack of faith. The healing of the boy is tied to the father's act of faith, even if it’s hesitant, as shown when the father cries out, "I believe; help my unbelief!" (Mark 9:24). This shows that even imperfect faith can lead to divine action when it is genuine.
Encouragement to Trust: This statement encourages individuals to deepen their faith, trust in God's abilities, and step forward with confidence, knowing that with God, what seems impossible to humans becomes possible.
Broader Implications:
This verse is often interpreted as a call to:
Strengthen one’s faith: Believers are encouraged to trust God fully.
Rely on God’s will: Outcomes may not always align with personal desires but trusting in God’s plan is key.
Act with boldness and hope: Faith is not passive; it often involves acting in alignment with God’s promises. 2 Cor. 1:20
In practice, this verse inspires hope and assurance that challenges can be overcome with faith, and that God’s purposes can be fulfilled in unexpected and transformative ways.
I have encountered many situations where this verse came to mind. When I would get into a sticky situation that needed to be resolved, I would quote this verse, "Anything is possible if a person believes." I would replace my name in the verse and make it personal. Then, I would think from the end. In other words, I would see my desired outcome. Of course, I would lean on the Holy Spirit trusting that the outcome is God’s will. Then, keep believing for the manifestation of what I am believing will come to pass.What are you facing today? Does a desired outcome seem impossible? Faith in God is the answer. Won’t you trust Him today? He is waiting to do the impossible if you will only let Him.
Thanks again for your company today along this path. I appreciate your interest and hope this post has informed and inspired you to seek God's grace for all who trust Him.
Let’s plan to continue the journey next time on Lighted Pathways to an Ever-Increasing Faith.
Don Mayer, Publisher,
and fellow traveler
Do you have a question about Biblical faith or practice that you want me to answer? Email me at conversationsofinterest@gmail.com, and I can answer you personally. Please let me know if you have a topic for a future post. I would certainly enjoy hearing from you.
Coming up in the next post we will be continuing our discussion on how Christian values as they relate to God’s word intersect with society.