Matthew 8:5-7

Now when Jesus had entered Capernaum, a centurion came to Him, pleading with Him, 
saying, “Lord, my servant is lying at home paralyzed, dreadfully tormented.”
And Jesus said to him, “I will come and heal him.” - Matthew 8:5-7 (NKJV) 

In Bible days, Roman centurions were notable and reputable men, who were expected to lead by example and were known for their formidable courage on the battlefield.

What I like about this particular Roman centurion was that he recognized the need of his servant and so he came to Jesus.

What’s more, he came pleading!

And it’s one thing to plead for yourself, or your spouse or a family member, but to plead for your servant is another.

This man didn’t allow his social standing to stop him from coming to God.

Instead, he got rid of his pride and his reputation and came straight to the source - Jesus.

I want to encourage you today.

What is it that you need from God?

Well, whatever it is, how you come will inevitably determine whether you receive anything or not.
You can come to God with a heart full of doubt and unbelief and you’ll receive nothing.

Or you can come earnestly with a heart full of faith and expectancy, losing sight of who you are, and you will receive.

Matthew 15:23-27

But He answered her not a word. And His disciples came and urged Him, saying, “Send her away, for she cries out after us.”
But He answered and said, “I was not sent except to the lost sheep of the house of Israel.” 
Then she came and worshiped Him, saying, “Lord, help me!”
But He answered and said, “It is not good to take the children’s bread and throw it to the little dogs.” 
And she said, “Yes, Lord, yet even the little dogs eat the crumbs which fall from their masters’ table.” (Matthew 15:23-27 NKJV).


God has given to each one of us a measure of faith, with which we can change our world.
But make no mistake; your faith will be tested.
It may be ignored, denied and even insulted, yet the God-kind of faith never ever gives up.
Instead, it will hold on to every God-given promise until what was spoken and declared with the mouth, is not only seen with the eyes, but also manifested in the flesh.

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". - Matthew 15:28 NKJV
Despite all the problems she was experiencing, this woman heard about Jesus and when she did, faith rose up in her heart bringing about a change in her life.
It doesn’t matter how hard your life has been or the many challenges that you have been through.
Hearing about Jesus and choosing to respond, can bring a change!