March 7 Matthew 9:22
“Jesus turned, and seeing her he said, ‘Take heart, daughter; your faith has made you well.’ And instantly the woman was made well.”
This verse is part of the account where Jesus heals a woman who had been suffering from a hemorrhage for twelve years. The woman, believing that merely touching the hem of Jesus’ garment would heal her, approaches Him in faith. When she touches His garment, Jesus perceives her act of faith and reassures her with the words, “Take heart, daughter; your faith has made you well.”
Key Themes:
1. Faith as the Instrument of Healing
The woman’s faith played a crucial role in her healing. Jesus does not attribute her healing to His power alone but acknowledges her faith as the key factor. This reinforces the biblical principle that faith is essential for receiving God’s blessings (Hebrews 11:6).
2. Compassion of Jesus
Jesus not only heals but also reassures the woman, calling her “daughter.” This is the only recorded instance where Jesus directly addresses someone with this term, indicating both affection and acceptance. It highlights His personal and loving concern for those who suffer.
3. Public Recognition of a Personal Healing
The woman tried to receive healing quietly, possibly due to the social stigma surrounding her condition (since a bleeding woman was considered unclean according to Jewish law). However, Jesus publicly acknowledges her, affirming her dignity and faith rather than allowing her to remain unnoticed.
4. Healing as a Sign of Spiritual Restoration
The word translated as “made well” (Greek: sozo) can also mean “saved.” This suggests that the woman’s healing was not just physical but also spiritual. Jesus often used physical healings to illustrate the greater healing of the soul through faith.
Application:
• Faith requires action
The woman’s faith was not passive; she reached out to Jesus despite societal barriers. True faith moves us to seek Christ.
• Jesus sees and responds personally
Even in a crowd, Jesus noticed her. This reminds us that no one is overlooked by God.
• Healing comes from Jesus
Whether physical, emotional, or spiritual, ultimate healing is found in Christ, who responds to our faith in Him.
This passage encourages believers to trust in Jesus wholeheartedly, knowing that He is both able and willing to heal and restore.
My late wife became ill less than a year after we were married. The doctors prognosis was for only three years. However, by faith and many, many prayers she lived for 29!
What healing have you had or witnessed?
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