New Testament Journey Day 39: Matthew 9:18-16 – Jesus Heals a bleeding woman and Restores a Girl to Life.

This scripture is some of my FAVORITE! Read on – you’ll see why.

“As Jesus was saying this, the leader of a synagogue came and knelt before him. “My daughter has just died,” he said, “but you can bring her back to life again if you just come and lay your hand on her.” So Jesus and his disciples got up and went with him.

Just then a woman who had suffered for twelve years with constant bleeding came up behind him. She touched the fringe of his robe, for she thought, “If I can just touch his robe, I will be healed.” Jesus turned around, and when he saw her he said, “Daughter, be encouraged. Your faith has made you whole.” And the woman was healed at that moment.

When Jesus arrived at the official’s home, he saw the noisy crowd and heard the funeral music. “Get out!” He told them. “The girl isn’t dead; she’s only asleep.” But the crowd laughed at him. After the crowd as put outside, however, Jesus went in and took the girl by the hand, and she stood up! The report of this miracle swept through the entire countryside.” – Matthew 9:18-26

Tell me that scripture doesn’t give you HOPE! It’s so rich with symbolism of what Jesus can do for us!

The one thing that stands out to me is that there is healing IN HIS PRESENCE! I recall that first women’s event I held. The devil wanted to whisper in my ear – You don’t have a big stage, you don’t have a big screen, you don’t have this and that (that I had seen at other Women’s events) and the Lord spoke to my heart and said “Kris, it’s not a program that heals, it’s my presence! Get them in my presence and I will move!” And He did!

**The woman with the issue of blood had suffered for 12 years with a hemorrhage. In our times of desperation, we don’t have to worry about the correct way to reach out to God. Like this woman, we can simply reach out in faith. He WILL respond! God changed her situation that had been a problem for years. She had become an outcast – one of the “Untouchables” and had not been able to lead a normal life. But Jesus changed that and restored her! Sometimes we are tempted to give up on people or situations that have not changed for many years. God can change what seems unchangeable, giving new purpose and hope!

The synagogue leader didn’t come to Jesus until his daughter was dead – it was too late for anyone else to help. But Jesus simply went to the girl and raised her! In our lives, Christ can make a difference when it seems too late for anyone else to help. He can bring healing to broken relationships, release from addicting habits, and forgiveness and healing to emotional scars. If your situation looks hopeless, remember, Christ can do the impossible!**

And often like the crowd – you will have those who laugh at you when you turn to Jesus and wonder how he will ever help. But I promise, He is waiting to heal you! Just get in His presence!!

**excerpts taken from the life application study bible