BRING FORTH YOUR STRONG REASONS

When we exercise faith beyond boundaries, it is usually because we have strong reasons connected to our faith which propel us to do so. We are convinced that what we believe in, works. We have convictions based on the efficacy of God's Word, which is forever settled in heaven.

Reference: Matthew 15:26-27 New Living Translation (NLT) 'Jesus responded, "It isn't right to take food from the children and throw it to the dogs." She replied, "That's true, Lord, but even dogs are allowed to eat the scraps that fall beneath their masters' table."'

A Canaanite woman met Jesus but her encounter with Jesus was a bit unique. In many of the encounters Jesus had with people, He was the One who released a level of motivational words that encouraged them to break the limits and challenge boun­daries. Jesus was the One who inspired religious authorities to show grace to the unqualified.

But in this case, a Canaanite woman approached Jesus, and He seemed to affirm some boundaries. He implied that because she was not an Israelite, she didn't have right to her daughter's healing through Him. He said, "It is not right to take the children's bread and toss it to the dogs." But the woman bravely and cleverly responded, saying, "Even the dogs eat the crumbs that fall from their master's table." In other words, she was not denying the fact that she wasn't an Israelite but she was denying the fact surrounding her existence, the ability to control her possibilities or cut her expectation off.

Have you been praying about that need? Have you been reminding God about that pressing need and it seems He is not listening? Not really! He has heard you because we serve a wonderful, prayer-answering God. However, He wants you to bring forth your strong reasons. Isaiah 41:21 (NKJV) says, 'Present your case," says the LORD. "Bring forth your strong reasons," says the King of Jacob.' In other words, argue your case, show why you should have that desired result.

Even in an examination, for you to prove that you know what you're doing, some questions require you to expatiate on the reasons for your answer. Same way, for your requests to be granted in heaven beyond doubts, and for the reasons for the request to be accepted in the Court of Heaven, they must be expressed based on God's written Word and in line with His will. Having successfully presented your case with relevant reasons in view, God will honour your desire.

So how did this woman win her case? This is it: What Jesus had said about His main mission to Israel was completely true; he was the Messiah who would fulfill God's promises to the people of Israel (see Matthew 15:24). But being knowledgeable, the woman stated by faith, in accordance with God's Word, that His mission was also to save not only Israel but also the whole world according to John 12:47 (ESV). That's the whole meaning of those coded interaction or allegory. With her response, Jesus granted her request accordingly.

Jesus, of course, knew His whole mission but He wanted her to prove her belief and conviction and also demonstrate her faith in it. Fortunately, the woman had a daring faith; she knew what the Word said concerning her request and Jesus was delighted to hear her express it. So Jesus confirmed that she had a great faith, granted her request, and her daughter was healed instantly (see verse 28).

Beloved John 5:39 (KJV) says, 'search the Scriptures...' Have you searched the Word of God concerning that request you are making and expecting God to grant? Have you located and meditated on the Scriptures concerning the request(s)? Can you prove to God that those Scriptures demonstrate His will, in the area of your request? Have you studied them to show yourself approved? (see 2 Timothy 2:15 NKJV). These questions may help you bring forth strong reasons for your requests, which the Lord is able to honour instantly.

Scripture Reading - Obadiah 1:17 Isaiah 60:21; Matthew 15:21-28; Galatians 4:1-7.

Guided Prayer: God of all grace, I'm grateful for your grace so abundant and evident in your Word. As I study and meditate on your Word, I gain strong reasons to walk in every inheritance you've granted me in Christ and I possess them through faith, prayer and supplication, in line with your perfect will for my life, in Jesus' Name, Amen!