Misplaced Trust

by E.L.

Earlier today as I was reading through the Gospel of Mark I received new perspective on the story of the woman with the issue of blood.

The New Living Translation, Chapter 5, verse 26, says she had "suffered a great deal from many doctors." Others translate the passage as she had "endured" a great deal from many doctors.

Imagine, the very people in whom she placed trust for a remedy instead caused more pain.

She exhausted all of her savings and trust on untrustworthy physicians. She paid for pain. When she had nothing left to give, hope ran out. After all, what physician renders services pro bono?

Perhaps previously, approaching Jesus was unthinkable, but desperation smashed pride.

Her story is a primer on legalism vs. grace. Many refuse to approach Jesus, to trust Him for salvation, until they've exhausted all other avenues.

Within herself she says "If only I can touch Him, I will be healed."
When she does, she is.

Jesus corrects her, however. He does not recognize her effort; he recognizes her faith. He says "your faith has made you well."

Her efforts led to massive loss, but faith led to restoration.

Philippians 3:3 says "put no confidence in the flesh."
Doing so is to misplace trust.

"For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast." Ephesians 2:8-9

This writing is the copyright of E.L. and is reprinted on this site by permission. View all of his available articles here.

Page added July 3, 2015

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