What is true faith? We talk about faith all the time. When we call someone to follow Jesus, we tell them to have faith in Him. When someone is struggling, we encourage them to exercise faith. We use salvation and faith interchangeable. Faith is a word we use all the time, but what does it mean? For the next few weeks I will answer that question.

The Faith of the Canaanite Woman

The Canaanite woman in Matthew 15:21-28 serves as an excellent example of faith. Over the next few days we will glean four things faith is from her story.

(2) True Faith is Persistent

The Canaanite woman was persistent. She kept coming after Jesus, even when He ignores her and the Disciples are annoyed. But she doesn’t care. She doesn’t turn away. She is persistent.

All those who exercise faith in Jesus are persistent as well. They know who He is. They know He has control over all things. They know He is Lord. They know He is the Messiah, so they continue to go after Jesus. They don’t give up.

How does this work out practically?

Some of you might be out of a job, and praying for another one, but God hasn’t answered you. Instead of giving up on God, we have to persistently trust Him, knowing He will answer in His own time.

Maybe some of you are sick, having difficulties at home, or need guidance. You have been praying, but God hasn’t delivered. Instead of giving up on God, we have to persistently trust Him. Again, knowing He will answer in His own time and in His own way.

True faith doesn’t allow situations, circumstances, or barriers to dissuade us from going after Jesus and trusting in Him. True faith is persistent.

The Content of True Faith

Continuing to build our definition of true faith, we see:

• True faith believes – It specifically believes Jesus is Lord and the Son of David. He is our authority and the only way to a reconciled relationship with the Father.
• True faith is persistent – It continues to go after Jesus not allowing anything to dissuade it or act as a barrier.

Questions for Reflection

1. Have your circumstances caused you to stop chasing after Jesus?
2. Do you continue to chase after Jesus no matter what is going on in your life, recognizing only He is Lord and Messiah?

Resources

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Post adapted from my most recent sermon The Faith of a Canaanite Woman