Do You Have Enough Faith?

The internet is a strange place. The internet is a strange place. Doesn't take long to find people who are Doesn't take long to find people who are Doesn't take long to find people who are angry about things you never imagined angry about things you never imagined angry about things you never imagined anyone could be against. anyone could be against. anyone could be against. There are antisilantro There are antisilantro There are antisilantro groups on the internet. groups on the internet. groups on the internet. >> What? >> What? >> What? How can you be against cilantro? And if How can you be against cilantro? And if How can you be against cilantro? And if you don't like it, you don't like it, you don't like it, don't eat it. don't eat it. don't eat it. There is a movement against the There is a movement against the There is a movement against the scientific concept of gravity scientific concept of gravity scientific concept of gravity that what goes up must comes down. that what goes up must comes down. that what goes up must comes down. There's all kinds of crazy stuff There's all kinds of crazy stuff There's all kinds of crazy stuff floating around out there. There are antis socks with sandals There are antis socks with sandals groups. >> There are antiselfcheckout >> There are antiselfcheckout groups.

groups. groups. Now, I might be in that group. Now, I might be in that group. Now, I might be in that group. Okay? So, I'll tell you my story. This Okay? So, I'll tell you my story. This Okay? So, I'll tell you my story. This week, Monday night, week, Monday night, week, Monday night, I went to Kroger by myself. I went to Kroger by myself. I went to Kroger by myself. that doesn't sound so significant to that doesn't sound so significant to that doesn't sound so significant to you, but I haven't done that in more you, but I haven't done that in more you, but I haven't done that in more than a decade. It's and so first of all, than a decade. It's and so first of all, than a decade. It's and so first of all, it's it's very overwhelming. It's very it's it's very overwhelming. It's very it's it's very overwhelming. It's very large. It's very confusing. large. It's very confusing. large. It's very confusing. But I was just going for yogurt. But I was just going for yogurt. But I was just going for yogurt. And and I found what I wanted, got it And and I found what I wanted, got it And and I found what I wanted, got it successfully without even asking for successfully without even asking for successfully without even asking for help. And then I I went to check out. help. And then I I went to check out. help. And then I I went to check out. Well, the last time I went there were um Well, the last time I went there were um Well, the last time I went there were um express lanes. It was like 10 items or express lanes. It was like 10 items or express lanes. It was like 10 items or less. I don't know if you know that they less. I don't know if you know that they less. I don't know if you know that they don't they don't have that anymore. don't they don't have that anymore. don't they don't have that anymore. Instead, they have this area filled with Instead, they have this area filled with Instead, they have this area filled with machines that selfch checkckout. machines that selfch checkckout. machines that selfch checkckout. I've never done that. So, I I just stood I've never done that. So, I I just stood I've never done that. So, I I just stood back and I watched some people do it back and I watched some people do it back and I watched some people do it because I I figured I'd pick up some because I I figured I'd pick up some because I I figured I'd pick up some clues. And then I decided I was ready clues. And then I decided I was ready clues. And then I decided I was ready and I went up and I tried to position my and I went up and I tried to position my and I went up and I tried to position my item and nothing happened. So I just item and nothing happened. So I just item and nothing happened. So I just raised my hand raised my hand raised my hand and pretty soon a girl came and she and pretty soon a girl came and she and pretty soon a girl came and she said, "Can I help you?" I said, "I've said, "Can I help you?" I said, "I've said, "Can I help you?" I said, "I've I've never done this before." And she I've never done this before." And she I've never done this before." And she said, "Well, you just scan your items."

said, "Well, you just scan your items." said, "Well, you just scan your items." I said, "Well, that would be the I said, "Well, that would be the I said, "Well, that would be the problem. I don't I don't know what I'm problem. I don't I don't know what I'm problem. I don't I don't know what I'm doing." And so she walked me through it. doing." And so she walked me through it. doing." And so she walked me through it. I got it successful. Left with my I got it successful. Left with my I got it successful. Left with my yogurt. But thank you. Uh but I I'm yogurt. But thank you. Uh but I I'm yogurt. But thank you. Uh but I I'm against selfch checkout. Anything that against selfch checkout. Anything that against selfch checkout. Anything that requires me to raise my hand and requires me to raise my hand and requires me to raise my hand and it's it's humiliating is is what it is. it's it's humiliating is is what it is. it's it's humiliating is is what it is. There are people against raisins and There are people against raisins and There are people against raisins and cookies. >> Just don't eat them. >> Just don't eat them. Apparently, no matter what you do, Apparently, no matter what you do, Apparently, no matter what you do, somebody somewhere has formed a group to somebody somewhere has formed a group to somebody somewhere has formed a group to oppose it. You can also find people who oppose it. You can also find people who oppose it. You can also find people who are for things. You can find twisted are for things. You can find twisted are for things. You can find twisted people who are for putting pineapple on people who are for putting pineapple on people who are for putting pineapple on pizza. You can find people who are for You can find people who are for Christmas music in July.

Christmas music in July. Christmas music in July. I am in that group. I am in that group. I am in that group. >> My Christmas tree has been up for seven >> My Christmas tree has been up for seven >> My Christmas tree has been up for seven seven weeks in my office. I am Mr. seven weeks in my office. I am Mr. seven weeks in my office. I am Mr. Christmas. Christmas. Christmas. There are groups of people who are for There are groups of people who are for There are groups of people who are for working out at 5 a.m. >> Not so if it's got a five in front of >> Not so if it's got a five in front of it. Not for me. it. Not for me. it. Not for me. You can find people who are for brownies You can find people who are for brownies You can find people who are for brownies without icing. without icing. without icing. What in the world? That's not brownie. What in the world? That's not brownie. What in the world? That's not brownie. That's a useless lump of cake. That's a useless lump of cake. That's a useless lump of cake. You can even find people who are for one You can even find people who are for one You can even find people who are for one word, word, word, pickles. Why would you be for the devil's fruit?

Why would you be for the devil's fruit? Oh, the internet has some wonderful uses. the internet has some wonderful uses. I'm thankful I no longer have to use I'm thankful I no longer have to use I'm thankful I no longer have to use paper maps or look up things in an paper maps or look up things in an paper maps or look up things in an encyclopedia. If you're under 25, I can encyclopedia. If you're under 25, I can encyclopedia. If you're under 25, I can tell you what that is later. Or search tell you what that is later. Or search tell you what that is later. Or search for instruction manuals. for instruction manuals. for instruction manuals. But there are other things that aren't But there are other things that aren't But there are other things that aren't so good. When I was growing up, if you so good. When I was growing up, if you so good. When I was growing up, if you want to learn about God or if you were want to learn about God or if you were want to learn about God or if you were interested in spiritual things, you went interested in spiritual things, you went interested in spiritual things, you went to church. to church. to church. That was the normal natural place to That was the normal natural place to That was the normal natural place to begin your search. used to be not begin your search. used to be not begin your search. used to be not anymore. Now in everinccreasing amounts, anymore. Now in everinccreasing amounts, anymore. Now in everinccreasing amounts, people turn to the internet in search people turn to the internet in search people turn to the internet in search for spirituality. There are websites for spirituality. There are websites for spirituality. There are websites about all kinds of wacky beliefs and about all kinds of wacky beliefs and about all kinds of wacky beliefs and practices. There's some strange, even practices. There's some strange, even practices. There's some strange, even dangerous stuff out there. Be careful dangerous stuff out there. Be careful dangerous stuff out there. Be careful when you explore spiritual questions when you explore spiritual questions when you explore spiritual questions online. Just because someone sounds online. Just because someone sounds online. Just because someone sounds smart doesn't mean they are smart. Just smart doesn't mean they are smart. Just smart doesn't mean they are smart. Just because it sounds like truth doesn't because it sounds like truth doesn't because it sounds like truth doesn't mean it is the truth. Saying you have a mean it is the truth. Saying you have a mean it is the truth. Saying you have a word from God doesn't mean that word's word from God doesn't mean that word's word from God doesn't mean that word's from God.

from God. from God. Some people post their foolishness. It's Some people post their foolishness. It's Some people post their foolishness. It's just a game to see if they can get just a game to see if they can get just a game to see if they can get people to believe it. Be aware and don't people to believe it. Be aware and don't people to believe it. Be aware and don't be fooled. If you're not sure, ask. be fooled. If you're not sure, ask. be fooled. If you're not sure, ask. One of the challenges of all the One of the challenges of all the One of the challenges of all the religious systems being taught is a religious systems being taught is a religious systems being taught is a tendency to put too much emphasis on tendency to put too much emphasis on tendency to put too much emphasis on yourself. yourself. yourself. Every major religious system other than Every major religious system other than Every major religious system other than Christianity teaches you must attain a Christianity teaches you must attain a Christianity teaches you must attain a certain level of good works or certain level of good works or certain level of good works or accomplishments in order to go to heaven accomplishments in order to go to heaven accomplishments in order to go to heaven or paradise. It's about you. If you or paradise. It's about you. If you or paradise. It's about you. If you accomplish enough good, you reach accomplish enough good, you reach accomplish enough good, you reach paradise. If you don't do enough, you paradise. If you don't do enough, you paradise. If you don't do enough, you won't be allowed into heaven. What you won't be allowed into heaven. What you won't be allowed into heaven. What you do determines where you go. How much is do determines where you go. How much is do determines where you go. How much is enough? Nobody knows. enough? Nobody knows. enough? Nobody knows. One thing's for sure, it's all up to One thing's for sure, it's all up to One thing's for sure, it's all up to you. you. you. We don't do it on purpose, but we take We don't do it on purpose, but we take We don't do it on purpose, but we take cues from other religions and all the cues from other religions and all the cues from other religions and all the emphasis on self and apply it to our emphasis on self and apply it to our emphasis on self and apply it to our belief system. What have you done?

belief system. What have you done? belief system. What have you done? What have you said? How much faith do What have you said? How much faith do What have you said? How much faith do you have? If you haven't been healed, you have? If you haven't been healed, you have? If you haven't been healed, it's because you don't have enough it's because you don't have enough it's because you don't have enough faith. If you haven't received a faith. If you haven't received a faith. If you haven't received a financial miracle, it's because you financial miracle, it's because you financial miracle, it's because you haven't given enough or done enough to haven't given enough or done enough to haven't given enough or done enough to qualify. qualify. qualify. Good-hearted people say things like, Good-hearted people say things like, Good-hearted people say things like, "Well, if you have this sickness, it "Well, if you have this sickness, it "Well, if you have this sickness, it must be your fault. must be your fault. must be your fault. You must be doing something wrong for You must be doing something wrong for You must be doing something wrong for this to happen." Or, "You wouldn't need this to happen." Or, "You wouldn't need this to happen." Or, "You wouldn't need to have that knee surgery if you had to have that knee surgery if you had to have that knee surgery if you had enough faith." I remember a lady telling enough faith." I remember a lady telling enough faith." I remember a lady telling one of our seniors that she was one of our seniors that she was one of our seniors that she was devastated to think somehow she was devastated to think somehow she was devastated to think somehow she was responsible for her knee problems. Then responsible for her knee problems. Then responsible for her knee problems. Then six months later, the lady who told her six months later, the lady who told her six months later, the lady who told her that had her own knee replacement that had her own knee replacement that had her own knee replacement surgery. surgery. surgery. Well, just say you're healed and you'll Well, just say you're healed and you'll Well, just say you're healed and you'll be healed. be healed. be healed. Don't admit you're sick and you won't be Don't admit you're sick and you won't be Don't admit you're sick and you won't be sick. Just have more faith. sick. Just have more faith. sick. Just have more faith. Is that really true? Is that really true? Is that really true? Does your healing or your miracle really Does your healing or your miracle really Does your healing or your miracle really depend on what you say or do? What's depend on what you say or do? What's depend on what you say or do? What's God's role? and just how good do you God's role? and just how good do you God's role? and just how good do you have to be in order to be healed, have to be in order to be healed, have to be in order to be healed, blessed, or receive a miracle? See, blessed, or receive a miracle? See, blessed, or receive a miracle? See, we've been taught to think it's a we've been taught to think it's a we've been taught to think it's a formula. If we can get to the right formula. If we can get to the right formula. If we can get to the right meeting, say the right prayer, give the meeting, say the right prayer, give the meeting, say the right prayer, give the right offering, or have the right right right offering, or have the right right right offering, or have the right right amount of faith, if we can just figure amount of faith, if we can just figure amount of faith, if we can just figure out the formula, God will heal us. I out the formula, God will heal us. I out the formula, God will heal us. I even have a book that teaches the right even have a book that teaches the right even have a book that teaches the right way to pray for every physical problem.

way to pray for every physical problem. way to pray for every physical problem. Where to place your hands, what to say. Where to place your hands, what to say. Where to place your hands, what to say. According to the author, if you don't According to the author, if you don't According to the author, if you don't say the right thing, it won't work. say the right thing, it won't work. say the right thing, it won't work. And I just picture God in heaven saying, And I just picture God in heaven saying, And I just picture God in heaven saying, "Oh, I really wanted to heal your "Oh, I really wanted to heal your "Oh, I really wanted to heal your migraines, but you put your hand in the migraines, but you put your hand in the migraines, but you put your hand in the wrong place. Maybe next time." I want to tackle a difficult theological I want to tackle a difficult theological question in hopefully an easy to question in hopefully an easy to question in hopefully an easy to understand way. understand way. understand way. When it comes to healing or a miracle, When it comes to healing or a miracle, When it comes to healing or a miracle, how much is up to you how much is up to you how much is up to you and how much is up to God? To do that, and how much is up to God? To do that, and how much is up to God? To do that, we're going to look at two stories in we're going to look at two stories in we're going to look at two stories in the New Testament. Two men who were in the New Testament. Two men who were in the New Testament. Two men who were in desperate situations. Their only hope desperate situations. Their only hope desperate situations. Their only hope was a miracle from Jesus. These two men was a miracle from Jesus. These two men was a miracle from Jesus. These two men had some similarities, had some similarities, had some similarities, but were really completely different. By but were really completely different. By but were really completely different. By studying their two stories and Jesus's studying their two stories and Jesus's studying their two stories and Jesus's reaction side by side, you'll discover reaction side by side, you'll discover reaction side by side, you'll discover some important things about miracles and some important things about miracles and some important things about miracles and I hope relieve some pressure. Now, this I hope relieve some pressure. Now, this I hope relieve some pressure. Now, this can be a little confusing because we're can be a little confusing because we're can be a little confusing because we're bouncing back and forth from story to bouncing back and forth from story to bouncing back and forth from story to story. So, you got to really stay paying story. So, you got to really stay paying story. So, you got to really stay paying attention with me. Mark 10 tells the attention with me. Mark 10 tells the attention with me. Mark 10 tells the story of Barnameus, a blind man who story of Barnameus, a blind man who story of Barnameus, a blind man who wanted to see.

wanted to see. wanted to see. John five, we find an invalid, a man who John five, we find an invalid, a man who John five, we find an invalid, a man who couldn't move and really wanted to walk. couldn't move and really wanted to walk. couldn't move and really wanted to walk. Bless you. Both men had a need. Both men had a need. One was blind. One was blind. One was blind. The other couldn't walk. The other couldn't walk. The other couldn't walk. Both men had a need. Both men also had a Both men had a need. Both men also had a Both men had a need. Both men also had a plan. Barnameus's plan was simple. He plan. Barnameus's plan was simple. He plan. Barnameus's plan was simple. He stood by the road. When Jesus came by, stood by the road. When Jesus came by, stood by the road. When Jesus came by, Barardeameus planned to shout out and Barardeameus planned to shout out and Barardeameus planned to shout out and ask for healing. The envellet had a more ask for healing. The envellet had a more ask for healing. The envellet had a more complex plan. He staked out a small pool complex plan. He staked out a small pool complex plan. He staked out a small pool called Bethesda, a crowded gathering called Bethesda, a crowded gathering called Bethesda, a crowded gathering place for people with all kinds of place for people with all kinds of place for people with all kinds of illnesses. People believed an angel illnesses. People believed an angel illnesses. People believed an angel came, stirred up the water, and the came, stirred up the water, and the came, stirred up the water, and the first person to get in the water would first person to get in the water would first person to get in the water would be healed. So when the water began to be healed. So when the water began to be healed. So when the water began to move in a mysterious way, there was a move in a mysterious way, there was a move in a mysterious way, there was a race to the pool. The invalid's plan was race to the pool. The invalid's plan was race to the pool. The invalid's plan was to jump in the pool at the first ripple.

to jump in the pool at the first ripple. to jump in the pool at the first ripple. There was just one slight flaw in the There was just one slight flaw in the There was just one slight flaw in the plan. He couldn't walk. plan. He couldn't walk. plan. He couldn't walk. He couldn't run to the pool or jump in He couldn't run to the pool or jump in He couldn't run to the pool or jump in the water. It really wasn't much of a the water. It really wasn't much of a the water. It really wasn't much of a plan. plan. plan. As Jesus and his disciples together with As Jesus and his disciples together with As Jesus and his disciples together with a large crowd were leaving the city, a a large crowd were leaving the city, a a large crowd were leaving the city, a blind man, Barardemus, was sitting by blind man, Barardemus, was sitting by blind man, Barardemus, was sitting by the roadside begging, he couldn't go out the roadside begging, he couldn't go out the roadside begging, he couldn't go out and get a job. But Barnamedus had some and get a job. But Barnamedus had some and get a job. But Barnamedus had some initiative. Every day, Bararddameus got initiative. Every day, Bararddameus got initiative. Every day, Bararddameus got up early to get one of the best spots. up early to get one of the best spots. up early to get one of the best spots. Spent his whole day begging, hoping Spent his whole day begging, hoping Spent his whole day begging, hoping someone would have pity and give him a someone would have pity and give him a someone would have pity and give him a few small coins. It wasn't much, but at few small coins. It wasn't much, but at few small coins. It wasn't much, but at least Barardeameus was doing something. least Barardeameus was doing something. least Barardeameus was doing something. The invalid, on the other hand, was The invalid, on the other hand, was The invalid, on the other hand, was doing absolutely nothing. He wasn't doing absolutely nothing. He wasn't doing absolutely nothing. He wasn't begging. begging. begging. He was lying on a mat by the pool day He was lying on a mat by the pool day He was lying on a mat by the pool day after day. He couldn't get up and run. after day. He couldn't get up and run. after day. He couldn't get up and run. He couldn't jump in the water. He couldn't jump in the water. He couldn't jump in the water. It's a picture of a guy wallowing in It's a picture of a guy wallowing in It's a picture of a guy wallowing in self-pity. I can't walk. I can't run.

self-pity. I can't walk. I can't run. self-pity. I can't walk. I can't run. I'm just going to lay here. It's the I'm just going to lay here. It's the I'm just going to lay here. It's the first big difference between them. first big difference between them. first big difference between them. Baremus was doing everything he could. Baremus was doing everything he could. Baremus was doing everything he could. The invalid was doing nothing. So, who The invalid was doing nothing. So, who The invalid was doing nothing. So, who are you like? are you like? are you like? Are you doing everything you know to do? Are you doing everything you know to do? Are you doing everything you know to do? Or are you like the invalid feeling Or are you like the invalid feeling Or are you like the invalid feeling sorry for yourself and just hoping one sorry for yourself and just hoping one sorry for yourself and just hoping one day you'll get a lucky break? Maybe day you'll get a lucky break? Maybe day you'll get a lucky break? Maybe you've heard the Bible verse, God helps you've heard the Bible verse, God helps you've heard the Bible verse, God helps those who help themselves. those who help themselves. those who help themselves. There's just one little problem with There's just one little problem with There's just one little problem with that verse. It's not in the Bible. that verse. It's not in the Bible. that verse. It's not in the Bible. And it's only partly true. God does help And it's only partly true. God does help And it's only partly true. God does help people who help themselves. God also people who help themselves. God also people who help themselves. God also helps people who can't help themselves. helps people who can't help themselves. helps people who can't help themselves. When Bararddmus heard it was Jesus of When Bararddmus heard it was Jesus of When Bararddmus heard it was Jesus of Nazareth, he began to shout, "Jesus, son Nazareth, he began to shout, "Jesus, son Nazareth, he began to shout, "Jesus, son of David, have mercy on me." Many of David, have mercy on me." Many of David, have mercy on me." Many rebuked him and told him to be quiet. rebuked him and told him to be quiet. rebuked him and told him to be quiet. But he shouted all the more, "Jesus, son But he shouted all the more, "Jesus, son But he shouted all the more, "Jesus, son of David, have mercy on me." Jesus of David, have mercy on me." Jesus of David, have mercy on me." Jesus always drew a crowd. It was a chance to always drew a crowd. It was a chance to always drew a crowd. It was a chance to make serious money. But Barnameus was make serious money. But Barnameus was make serious money. But Barnameus was focused on Jesus, the opportunity for focused on Jesus, the opportunity for focused on Jesus, the opportunity for much more than money. He didn't worry much more than money. He didn't worry much more than money. He didn't worry about the crowd trying to quiet him. He about the crowd trying to quiet him. He about the crowd trying to quiet him. He just kept yelling, "Son of David, have just kept yelling, "Son of David, have just kept yelling, "Son of David, have mercy on me." Barameus ignored all the mercy on me." Barameus ignored all the mercy on me." Barameus ignored all the obstacles and kept his focus on Jesus.

obstacles and kept his focus on Jesus. obstacles and kept his focus on Jesus. The invalid was a little different. When The invalid was a little different. When The invalid was a little different. When Jesus saw him lying there learned he'd Jesus saw him lying there learned he'd Jesus saw him lying there learned he'd been in the condition a long time, he been in the condition a long time, he been in the condition a long time, he asked him, "Do you want to get well?" asked him, "Do you want to get well?" asked him, "Do you want to get well?" This is Jesus asking, "Do you want to be This is Jesus asking, "Do you want to be This is Jesus asking, "Do you want to be well?" well?" well?" The invalid is was the biblical The invalid is was the biblical The invalid is was the biblical equivalent of Eeyore from Winnie the equivalent of Eeyore from Winnie the equivalent of Eeyore from Winnie the Boo. Boo. Boo. Jesus said, "Do you want to get well?" Jesus said, "Do you want to get well?" Jesus said, "Do you want to get well?" His reply was, "Sir, His reply was, "Sir, His reply was, "Sir, I have no one to help me get in the pool I have no one to help me get in the pool I have no one to help me get in the pool when the water is stirred. when the water is stirred. when the water is stirred. When I'm trying to get in, someone goes When I'm trying to get in, someone goes When I'm trying to get in, someone goes down ahead of me. Nobody loves me. down ahead of me. Nobody loves me. down ahead of me. Nobody loves me. Everybody hates me. Think I'm going to Everybody hates me. Think I'm going to Everybody hates me. Think I'm going to go eat some worms." The envoy didn't even recognize Jesus. The envoy didn't even recognize Jesus. He just continued his pity party. All He just continued his pity party. All He just continued his pity party. All the reasons he couldn't get better. the reasons he couldn't get better. the reasons he couldn't get better. Someone was always faster. Someone was always faster. Someone was always faster. No one was around to throw him in the No one was around to throw him in the No one was around to throw him in the water. This helpless man's world was water. This helpless man's world was water. This helpless man's world was confined to a tiny mat on the stone confined to a tiny mat on the stone confined to a tiny mat on the stone surrounding the pool. It's the second surrounding the pool. It's the second surrounding the pool. It's the second difference. Barameus was Jesus focused.

difference. Barameus was Jesus focused. difference. Barameus was Jesus focused. The invalid was excuse focused. So which The invalid was excuse focused. So which The invalid was excuse focused. So which are you like? are you like? are you like? Are you focused on Jesus Are you focused on Jesus Are you focused on Jesus or are you focused on your problems and or are you focused on your problems and or are you focused on your problems and your excuses? all the reasons you're not your excuses? all the reasons you're not your excuses? all the reasons you're not happy. happy. happy. When Jesus heard Bardameus yelling, he When Jesus heard Bardameus yelling, he When Jesus heard Bardameus yelling, he stopped and he said, "Call him." So they stopped and he said, "Call him." So they stopped and he said, "Call him." So they called to the blind men. They said, called to the blind men. They said, called to the blind men. They said, "Cheer up on your feet. He's calling "Cheer up on your feet. He's calling "Cheer up on your feet. He's calling you." you." you." Throwing his cloak aside, he jumped to Throwing his cloak aside, he jumped to Throwing his cloak aside, he jumped to his feet and he came to Jesus. When he his feet and he came to Jesus. When he his feet and he came to Jesus. When he got there, Jesus said, "What do you want got there, Jesus said, "What do you want got there, Jesus said, "What do you want me to do for you?" me to do for you?" me to do for you?" And he said, "Rabbi, And he said, "Rabbi, And he said, "Rabbi, I want to see." He was full of hope. I want to see." He was full of hope. I want to see." He was full of hope. When Jesus asked what he needed, When Jesus asked what he needed, When Jesus asked what he needed, Barnameus could have asked for money, a Barnameus could have asked for money, a Barnameus could have asked for money, a prime begging spot, a new job. Instead, prime begging spot, a new job. Instead, prime begging spot, a new job. Instead, he went for the whole thing. I want to he went for the whole thing. I want to he went for the whole thing. I want to see. see. see. When Jesus asked the invalid, "Do you When Jesus asked the invalid, "Do you When Jesus asked the invalid, "Do you want to get well?" He said, "Sir, want to get well?" He said, "Sir, want to get well?" He said, "Sir, I have no one to help me in the pool I have no one to help me in the pool I have no one to help me in the pool when the water's stirred.

when the water's stirred. when the water's stirred. when I'm trying to get in, somebody when I'm trying to get in, somebody when I'm trying to get in, somebody always goes ahead of me. always goes ahead of me. always goes ahead of me. He didn't say, "I want to walk." Because He didn't say, "I want to walk." Because He didn't say, "I want to walk." Because he'd given up. he'd given up. he'd given up. We don't know exactly why he was at the We don't know exactly why he was at the We don't know exactly why he was at the pool. We do know he'd been an invalid pool. We do know he'd been an invalid pool. We do know he'd been an invalid for 38 years. For almost four decades, for 38 years. For almost four decades, for 38 years. For almost four decades, he'd seen through the eyes of he'd seen through the eyes of he'd seen through the eyes of hopelessness, waiting for a healing that hopelessness, waiting for a healing that hopelessness, waiting for a healing that didn't come. didn't come. didn't come. He no longer believed it was possible. He no longer believed it was possible. He no longer believed it was possible. He was an excuse making no chance taking He was an excuse making no chance taking He was an excuse making no chance taking hopeless case. What a difference. hopeless case. What a difference. hopeless case. What a difference. Baremus was hopeful. Baremus was hopeful. Baremus was hopeful. The invalid was hopeless. The invalid was hopeless. The invalid was hopeless. So how about you? Are you filled with So how about you? Are you filled with So how about you? Are you filled with hope? hope? hope? Are you hopeless? Are you hopeless? Are you hopeless? When Jesus called Bararddameus, throwing When Jesus called Bararddameus, throwing When Jesus called Bararddameus, throwing his cloak aside, he jumped to his feet his cloak aside, he jumped to his feet his cloak aside, he jumped to his feet and he came to Jesus. Barameus followed and he came to Jesus. Barameus followed and he came to Jesus. Barameus followed the sound of Jesus's voice and pressed the sound of Jesus's voice and pressed the sound of Jesus's voice and pressed his way through the crowd. his way through the crowd. his way through the crowd. The envelid couldn't come to Jesus. He The envelid couldn't come to Jesus. He The envelid couldn't come to Jesus. He wasn't physically able to approach. So wasn't physically able to approach. So wasn't physically able to approach. So Jesus in all his mercy went to the Jesus in all his mercy went to the Jesus in all his mercy went to the invalid.

invalid. invalid. What an awesome thought. He couldn't What an awesome thought. He couldn't What an awesome thought. He couldn't approach Jesus. So Jesus approached him. approach Jesus. So Jesus approached him. approach Jesus. So Jesus approached him. He walked up in the middle of the man's He walked up in the middle of the man's He walked up in the middle of the man's hopeless sorrow and despair. What a hopeless sorrow and despair. What a hopeless sorrow and despair. What a difference. Baremus came to Jesus. Jesus difference. Baremus came to Jesus. Jesus difference. Baremus came to Jesus. Jesus came to the invalid. And in spite of all came to the invalid. And in spite of all came to the invalid. And in spite of all their differences, both men had an their differences, both men had an their differences, both men had an encounter with Jesus. Jesus stopped for encounter with Jesus. Jesus stopped for encounter with Jesus. Jesus stopped for both of them. For Barardeameus, who was both of them. For Barardeameus, who was both of them. For Barardeameus, who was filled with hope, and for the invalid filled with hope, and for the invalid filled with hope, and for the invalid who had no hope. who had no hope. who had no hope. The blind man shouted, "Jesus, son of The blind man shouted, "Jesus, son of The blind man shouted, "Jesus, son of David, have mercy on me." When Jesus David, have mercy on me." When Jesus David, have mercy on me." When Jesus came to him and asked what he wanted, he came to him and asked what he wanted, he came to him and asked what he wanted, he replied, "I want to see." replied, "I want to see." replied, "I want to see." Somehow Bararddmus knew who Jesus was, Somehow Bararddmus knew who Jesus was, Somehow Bararddmus knew who Jesus was, Jesus had spoken around the area where Jesus had spoken around the area where Jesus had spoken around the area where Bararddus lived. And on one of those Bararddus lived. And on one of those Bararddus lived. And on one of those occasions, Baremus must have been on the occasions, Baremus must have been on the occasions, Baremus must have been on the edge of the crowd and heard life-giving edge of the crowd and heard life-giving edge of the crowd and heard life-giving words. He addressed Jesus as son of words. He addressed Jesus as son of words. He addressed Jesus as son of David, which meant Messiah, the promised David, which meant Messiah, the promised David, which meant Messiah, the promised one, our king.

one, our king. one, our king. Bardeameus listened better than other Bardeameus listened better than other Bardeameus listened better than other people. He was blind. Listening was his people. He was blind. Listening was his people. He was blind. Listening was his only way to learn. And apparently only way to learn. And apparently only way to learn. And apparently somewhere along the way, Baremus made somewhere along the way, Baremus made somewhere along the way, Baremus made the decision that Jesus was more than a the decision that Jesus was more than a the decision that Jesus was more than a man. He was the son of God. Bardameus man. He was the son of God. Bardameus man. He was the son of God. Bardameus was a faithfilled was a faithfilled was a faithfilled believer. believer. believer. The invalid apparently wasn't a The invalid apparently wasn't a The invalid apparently wasn't a believer, a follower, even a casual believer, a follower, even a casual believer, a follower, even a casual observer. Jesus was the most famous observer. Jesus was the most famous observer. Jesus was the most famous teacher of the day, a figure who teacher of the day, a figure who teacher of the day, a figure who inspired controversy everywhere he went. inspired controversy everywhere he went. inspired controversy everywhere he went. But this guy sitting by the pool had But this guy sitting by the pool had But this guy sitting by the pool had never even heard of him. He called him, never even heard of him. He called him, never even heard of him. He called him, "Sir," "Sir," "Sir," imagine all of those sick people sitting imagine all of those sick people sitting imagine all of those sick people sitting around a pool waiting for healing, not around a pool waiting for healing, not around a pool waiting for healing, not knowing that the healer himself was on knowing that the healer himself was on knowing that the healer himself was on the scene. the scene. the scene. >> The invalid couldn't have been a >> The invalid couldn't have been a >> The invalid couldn't have been a believer or he would have known who believer or he would have known who believer or he would have known who Jesus was. Jesus was. Jesus was. So if he's not a believer, there's no So if he's not a believer, there's no So if he's not a believer, there's no way he'd be healed, right?

way he'd be healed, right? way he'd be healed, right? Because if he didn't believe in Jesus, Because if he didn't believe in Jesus, Because if he didn't believe in Jesus, how could he do his part? How could he how could he do his part? How could he how could he do his part? How could he have any faith? have any faith? have any faith? It's a massive difference. Barameus was It's a massive difference. Barameus was It's a massive difference. Barameus was a believer. The invalid didn't even know a believer. The invalid didn't even know a believer. The invalid didn't even know who Jesus was. who Jesus was. who Jesus was. What do you want me to do for for you? What do you want me to do for for you? What do you want me to do for for you? Jesus asked. Barardeameus, the blind Jesus asked. Barardeameus, the blind Jesus asked. Barardeameus, the blind man, said, "Rabbi, I want to see." No man, said, "Rabbi, I want to see." No man, said, "Rabbi, I want to see." No hesitation, no doubt. I want to see. hesitation, no doubt. I want to see. hesitation, no doubt. I want to see. When Jesus came to him, Bararddmus is When Jesus came to him, Bararddmus is When Jesus came to him, Bararddmus is ready to receive ready to receive ready to receive the envelid. the envelid. the envelid. Jesus said, "Do you want to get well?" Jesus said, "Do you want to get well?" Jesus said, "Do you want to get well?" Sir, Sir, Sir, I have no one to help me into the pool I have no one to help me into the pool I have no one to help me into the pool when the water's stirred. when the water's stirred. when the water's stirred. Well, I'm trying to get in. Somebody Well, I'm trying to get in. Somebody Well, I'm trying to get in. Somebody always goes ahead of me. The influent always goes ahead of me. The influent always goes ahead of me. The influent didn't even know what he needed. He didn't even know what he needed. He didn't even know what he needed. He didn't ask to be healed. He was just didn't ask to be healed. He was just didn't ask to be healed. He was just looking for somebody committed enough to looking for somebody committed enough to looking for somebody committed enough to hang with him and chunk him in the hang with him and chunk him in the hang with him and chunk him in the water. water. water. He was looking for answers when the He was looking for answers when the He was looking for answers when the supernatural answer was right in front supernatural answer was right in front supernatural answer was right in front of him.

of him. of him. It is a significant difference. Barameus It is a significant difference. Barameus It is a significant difference. Barameus knew what he wanted healing. knew what he wanted healing. knew what he wanted healing. The invalid didn't even know what he The invalid didn't even know what he The invalid didn't even know what he needed. And comparing the stories, we needed. And comparing the stories, we needed. And comparing the stories, we kind of root for Baremus. kind of root for Baremus. kind of root for Baremus. he deserves to be healed and were kind he deserves to be healed and were kind he deserves to be healed and were kind of apathetic towards the invalid. of apathetic towards the invalid. of apathetic towards the invalid. But both had an encounter with Jesus and But both had an encounter with Jesus and But both had an encounter with Jesus and surprisingly both received a miracle. surprisingly both received a miracle. surprisingly both received a miracle. For some of you, everything you've For some of you, everything you've For some of you, everything you've believed about miracles and healing is believed about miracles and healing is believed about miracles and healing is about to be challenged. Look what about to be challenged. Look what about to be challenged. Look what happened next. First Barameus, happened next. First Barameus, happened next. First Barameus, go said Jesus, your faith has healed go said Jesus, your faith has healed go said Jesus, your faith has healed you. Barameus was healed because of his you. Barameus was healed because of his you. Barameus was healed because of his faith. So that must be the key, the faith. So that must be the key, the faith. So that must be the key, the secret. If you want to be healed, you secret. If you want to be healed, you secret. If you want to be healed, you have to have great faith. have to have great faith. have to have great faith. It is up to you. It is true. God helps It is up to you. It is true. God helps It is up to you. It is true. God helps those who help themselves. those who help themselves. those who help themselves. The invid Jesus said to him, "Get up, The invid Jesus said to him, "Get up, The invid Jesus said to him, "Get up, pick up your mat, and walk." In kind of pick up your mat, and walk." In kind of pick up your mat, and walk." In kind of a understated moment, the Bible says at a understated moment, the Bible says at a understated moment, the Bible says at once the man was cured, picked up his once the man was cured, picked up his once the man was cured, picked up his mat, and walked. Now wait a second.

mat, and walked. Now wait a second. mat, and walked. Now wait a second. If the formula is faith, why was the If the formula is faith, why was the If the formula is faith, why was the influence healed? He didn't have any influence healed? He didn't have any influence healed? He didn't have any faith. faith. faith. Nothing he did brought his healing. He Nothing he did brought his healing. He Nothing he did brought his healing. He didn't even know who Jesus was. didn't even know who Jesus was. didn't even know who Jesus was. When Jesus offered healing, he's want When Jesus offered healing, he's want When Jesus offered healing, he's want someone to throw him in the water. I'm someone to throw him in the water. I'm someone to throw him in the water. I'm surprised he didn't say, "Ah, I'm good. surprised he didn't say, "Ah, I'm good. surprised he didn't say, "Ah, I'm good. Forget it. I'll just I'll stay here on Forget it. I'll just I'll stay here on Forget it. I'll just I'll stay here on my mat." my mat." my mat." Barnameus was healed because of his Barnameus was healed because of his Barnameus was healed because of his faith. The invalid wasn't healed because faith. The invalid wasn't healed because faith. The invalid wasn't healed because of his faith, but because of Jesus's of his faith, but because of Jesus's of his faith, but because of Jesus's compassion. Jesus said to Bararddmus, "Go, your Jesus said to Bararddmus, "Go, your faith has healed you." Barnameus was a faith has healed you." Barnameus was a faith has healed you." Barnameus was a believer before being healed. His faith believer before being healed. His faith believer before being healed. His faith was a key to his healing. The invalid was a key to his healing. The invalid was a key to his healing. The invalid was not a believer before his healing. was not a believer before his healing. was not a believer before his healing. In fact, he didn't become a believer In fact, he didn't become a believer In fact, he didn't become a believer until sometime after his healing. His until sometime after his healing. His until sometime after his healing. His faith came as a result of his miracle. This will mess with some of your This will mess with some of your theology. If you always believed healing theology. If you always believed healing theology. If you always believed healing was the result of faith, how do you was the result of faith, how do you was the result of faith, how do you explain this?

explain this? explain this? There's only one possible explanation. There's only one possible explanation. There's only one possible explanation. The love of God. The love of God. The love of God. God in his love and mercy chose to God in his love and mercy chose to God in his love and mercy chose to reveal himself to the invalid by healing reveal himself to the invalid by healing reveal himself to the invalid by healing his sickness. Bardameus was healed his sickness. Bardameus was healed his sickness. Bardameus was healed because of his faith in Jesus. The because of his faith in Jesus. The because of his faith in Jesus. The invalid had faith in Jesus because he invalid had faith in Jesus because he invalid had faith in Jesus because he was healed. I think of people who struggle with I think of people who struggle with depression. It's rare that someone is fighting the It's rare that someone is fighting the depression and at the same time is depression and at the same time is depression and at the same time is filled with faith. filled with faith. filled with faith. Thank God it's not about you. What you Thank God it's not about you. What you Thank God it's not about you. What you say, what you pray or what you do. He is say, what you pray or what you do. He is say, what you pray or what you do. He is God. You are not. Now, let me caution you with a balance Now, let me caution you with a balance point. You could listen to that and say, point. You could listen to that and say, point. You could listen to that and say, "Pastor Rod doesn't believe in faith. He "Pastor Rod doesn't believe in faith. He "Pastor Rod doesn't believe in faith. He doesn't think faith makes a difference." doesn't think faith makes a difference." doesn't think faith makes a difference." If you say that, you are twisting my If you say that, you are twisting my If you say that, you are twisting my words and misrepresenting your the words and misrepresenting your the words and misrepresenting your the truth. I am faithfilled. I believe in an truth. I am faithfilled. I believe in an truth. I am faithfilled. I believe in an all powerful God who can do immeasurably all powerful God who can do immeasurably all powerful God who can do immeasurably beyond all we ask or imagine. And beyond all we ask or imagine. And beyond all we ask or imagine. And scripture is clear. Faith is necessary scripture is clear. Faith is necessary scripture is clear. Faith is necessary for the follower of Jesus. Hebrews 11:6 for the follower of Jesus. Hebrews 11:6 for the follower of Jesus. Hebrews 11:6 says, "Without faith, it's impossible to says, "Without faith, it's impossible to says, "Without faith, it's impossible to please God."

please God." please God." Because anyone who comes to him must Because anyone who comes to him must Because anyone who comes to him must believe he exists and that he rewards believe he exists and that he rewards believe he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him. those who earnestly seek him. those who earnestly seek him. At the same time, I'm thankful that when At the same time, I'm thankful that when At the same time, I'm thankful that when my faith is weak, God is still able to my faith is weak, God is still able to my faith is weak, God is still able to heal. heal. heal. >> His miraculous power is unlimited. >> His miraculous power is unlimited. >> His miraculous power is unlimited. What happened next was amazing. What happened next was amazing. What happened next was amazing. Barnameus did what you would expect. He Barnameus did what you would expect. He Barnameus did what you would expect. He left his beggar tools and he followed left his beggar tools and he followed left his beggar tools and he followed Jesus. The man who restored his sight Jesus. The man who restored his sight Jesus. The man who restored his sight was worthy of following. The invalid, the day on which this took place was the the day on which this took place was the Sabbath. And so the Jews said to the man Sabbath. And so the Jews said to the man Sabbath. And so the Jews said to the man who had been healed, it's Sabbath. The who had been healed, it's Sabbath. The who had been healed, it's Sabbath. The law forbids you to carry your mat. They law forbids you to carry your mat. They law forbids you to carry your mat. They they were ignoring the fact that he's they were ignoring the fact that he's they were ignoring the fact that he's been healed and he's walking. They're been healed and he's walking. They're been healed and he's walking. They're saying, "Dude, you're not supposed to saying, "Dude, you're not supposed to saying, "Dude, you're not supposed to carry your mat." They asked him, "Who is this fellow who They asked him, "Who is this fellow who told you to pick it up and walk?" The man who was healed had no idea who The man who was healed had no idea who it was. For Jesus had slipped away into it was. For Jesus had slipped away into it was. For Jesus had slipped away into the crowd that was there. What?

the crowd that was there. What? the crowd that was there. What? Put yourself in the influence place. You Put yourself in the influence place. You Put yourself in the influence place. You You were crippled and couldn't walk. You You were crippled and couldn't walk. You You were crippled and couldn't walk. You lost all hope. You never had a chance to lost all hope. You never had a chance to lost all hope. You never had a chance to walk again. Why? A man walks up and walk again. Why? A man walks up and walk again. Why? A man walks up and heals you. Would you would you really heals you. Would you would you really heals you. Would you would you really lose track of him in the crowd? lose track of him in the crowd? lose track of him in the crowd? I don't think so. You would grab onto I don't think so. You would grab onto I don't think so. You would grab onto Jesus with everything you had, Jesus with everything you had, Jesus with everything you had, determined to follow him forever. determined to follow him forever. determined to follow him forever. But not this guy. But not this guy. But not this guy. Many people, even though they've been Many people, even though they've been Many people, even though they've been touched by God and experience his love touched by God and experience his love touched by God and experience his love and power, lose sight of him in their and power, lose sight of him in their and power, lose sight of him in their crowded life, just like the envelid. crowded life, just like the envelid. crowded life, just like the envelid. And what you think should happen next is And what you think should happen next is And what you think should happen next is when the invalid didn't acknowledge that when the invalid didn't acknowledge that when the invalid didn't acknowledge that Jesus had healed him, bam, God made him Jesus had healed him, bam, God made him Jesus had healed him, bam, God made him crippled again. crippled again. crippled again. But not Jesus. But not Jesus. But not Jesus. Jesus, the son of God, filled with Jesus, the son of God, filled with Jesus, the son of God, filled with incredible love, went to find the incredible love, went to find the incredible love, went to find the invalid again. He found him at the invalid again. He found him at the invalid again. He found him at the temple, and he said to him, "See, you're temple, and he said to him, "See, you're temple, and he said to him, "See, you're well. Stop sinning or something worse well. Stop sinning or something worse well. Stop sinning or something worse may happen to you." The man went away may happen to you." The man went away may happen to you." The man went away and told the Jews it was Jesus who made and told the Jews it was Jesus who made and told the Jews it was Jesus who made him well. Jesus's comment indicated he him well. Jesus's comment indicated he him well. Jesus's comment indicated he was not only concerned with the man's was not only concerned with the man's was not only concerned with the man's physical condition, but also his physical condition, but also his physical condition, but also his spiritual condition.

spiritual condition. spiritual condition. 38 years as an invalid was nothing 38 years as an invalid was nothing 38 years as an invalid was nothing compared to an eternity in hell. compared to an eternity in hell. compared to an eternity in hell. Jesus's point was sobering. Sin has Jesus's point was sobering. Sin has Jesus's point was sobering. Sin has consequences far worse than any consequences far worse than any consequences far worse than any sickness. sickness. sickness. Both Barnameus and the envellet had the Both Barnameus and the envellet had the Both Barnameus and the envellet had the opportunity to become followers of opportunity to become followers of opportunity to become followers of Jesus. Barameus chose to follow. Jesus. Barameus chose to follow. Jesus. Barameus chose to follow. We really don't know what decision the We really don't know what decision the We really don't know what decision the envellet made, but it appears he also envellet made, but it appears he also envellet made, but it appears he also became a follower because he returned to became a follower because he returned to became a follower because he returned to the Jews and proclaimed Jesus was the the Jews and proclaimed Jesus was the the Jews and proclaimed Jesus was the one who healed them. He didn't have to one who healed them. He didn't have to one who healed them. He didn't have to do that. He didn't have to go back. It do that. He didn't have to go back. It do that. He didn't have to go back. It was dangerous. They didn't like Jesus. was dangerous. They didn't like Jesus. was dangerous. They didn't like Jesus. But he became a witness to the power of But he became a witness to the power of But he became a witness to the power of Jesus. Both men areas and the envellet Jesus. Both men areas and the envellet Jesus. Both men areas and the envellet had a savior. So what's the formula? So what's the formula? Who does God help? Who does God help? Who does God help? Two categories of people. God helps Two categories of people. God helps Two categories of people. God helps those who help themselves like Baremus. those who help themselves like Baremus. those who help themselves like Baremus. God also helps those who can't help God also helps those who can't help God also helps those who can't help themselves like the envelope.

themselves like the envelope. themselves like the envelope. It's not about you. It's about him. It's not about you. It's about him. It's not about you. It's about him. It's not about the words you say, the It's not about the words you say, the It's not about the words you say, the faith you feel, or the things you do. faith you feel, or the things you do. faith you feel, or the things you do. That's all wonderful and good, but it's That's all wonderful and good, but it's That's all wonderful and good, but it's not about you. not about you. not about you. It's not about finding a formula. It's It's not about finding a formula. It's It's not about finding a formula. It's finding Jesus who loves you beyond all finding Jesus who loves you beyond all finding Jesus who loves you beyond all love. The lesson from Bararddmus is run love. The lesson from Bararddmus is run love. The lesson from Bararddmus is run to Jesus. People may try to discourage to Jesus. People may try to discourage to Jesus. People may try to discourage you. It may not seem like you have much you. It may not seem like you have much you. It may not seem like you have much hope, but run to Jesus. When hope is hope, but run to Jesus. When hope is hope, but run to Jesus. When hope is gone, when doctors don't have an answer, gone, when doctors don't have an answer, gone, when doctors don't have an answer, when you don't know where to turn, run when you don't know where to turn, run when you don't know where to turn, run to him. And when you run to Jesus, he is to him. And when you run to Jesus, he is to him. And when you run to Jesus, he is ready to save, forgive, deliver, and ready to save, forgive, deliver, and ready to save, forgive, deliver, and heal. Don't let anything stop you from heal. Don't let anything stop you from heal. Don't let anything stop you from coming to him. Stand up or come forward every time Stand up or come forward every time there's an altar call for healing. Don't there's an altar call for healing. Don't there's an altar call for healing. Don't miss a moment or a chance. miss a moment or a chance. miss a moment or a chance. Submit your prayer request at Submit your prayer request at Submit your prayer request at personnelr.com. No matter how long personnelr.com. No matter how long personnelr.com. No matter how long you've been praying for it, you've been praying for it, you've been praying for it, when others ask how you're doing, tell when others ask how you're doing, tell when others ask how you're doing, tell them the truth. I'm seeking a miracle them the truth. I'm seeking a miracle them the truth. I'm seeking a miracle from Jesus and ask them for prayer. When from Jesus and ask them for prayer. When from Jesus and ask them for prayer. When you feel discouraged, worship. When you you feel discouraged, worship. When you you feel discouraged, worship. When you feel broken, pray. When you feel stuck, feel broken, pray. When you feel stuck, feel broken, pray. When you feel stuck, run to Jesus. Don't let anything keep run to Jesus. Don't let anything keep run to Jesus. Don't let anything keep you away.

you away. you away. The lesson from the influid, The lesson from the influid, The lesson from the influid, 38 years had passed. 38 years had passed. 38 years had passed. He was convinced things would never get He was convinced things would never get He was convinced things would never get any better. He didn't deserve to be any better. He didn't deserve to be any better. He didn't deserve to be healed. He didn't exhibit any faith to healed. He didn't exhibit any faith to healed. He didn't exhibit any faith to warn a response from Jesus. He didn't warn a response from Jesus. He didn't warn a response from Jesus. He didn't even know who Jesus was. even know who Jesus was. even know who Jesus was. In his case, rather than help those who In his case, rather than help those who In his case, rather than help those who help themselves, Jesus helped the help themselves, Jesus helped the help themselves, Jesus helped the helpless. When everything around you fails, When everything around you fails, when friends or family aren't around to when friends or family aren't around to when friends or family aren't around to give you what you need, when your cries give you what you need, when your cries give you what you need, when your cries for help seem to bounce off the ceiling. for help seem to bounce off the ceiling. for help seem to bounce off the ceiling. God's mercy steps in. Jesus didn't walk up to the man and say, Jesus didn't walk up to the man and say, "You're going to be healed where you "You're going to be healed where you "You're going to be healed where you whether you like it or not." Jesus whether you like it or not." Jesus whether you like it or not." Jesus didn't force it. He just said, "Do you didn't force it. He just said, "Do you didn't force it. He just said, "Do you want to be made well?"

want to be made well?" want to be made well?" God never forces his mercy on you. Must God never forces his mercy on you. Must God never forces his mercy on you. Must be received. be received. be received. What attracts God's mercy? Mercy is What attracts God's mercy? Mercy is What attracts God's mercy? Mercy is God's response to misery. Maybe you feel abandoned and that all Maybe you feel abandoned and that all help is vanished. help is vanished. help is vanished. You tried everything you can think of. You tried everything you can think of. You tried everything you can think of. You prayed every prayer you can pray and You prayed every prayer you can pray and You prayed every prayer you can pray and nothing has worked. nothing has worked. nothing has worked. Look at me. If that's you, look at me. Look at me. If that's you, look at me. Look at me. If that's you, look at me. Listen to me. Listen to me. Listen to me. You are a perfect candidate You are a perfect candidate You are a perfect candidate for the mercy of God. for the mercy of God. for the mercy of God. When you are helpless and hopeless, he When you are helpless and hopeless, he When you are helpless and hopeless, he God reaches out in mercy. The lesson God reaches out in mercy. The lesson God reaches out in mercy. The lesson from the envellet is Jesus runs to you. from the envellet is Jesus runs to you. from the envellet is Jesus runs to you. You can receive a miracle if you've got You can receive a miracle if you've got You can receive a miracle if you've got a lot of faith, a little faith, or none a lot of faith, a little faith, or none a lot of faith, a little faith, or none at all.

at all. at all. If you are hopeful or hopeless, If you are hopeful or hopeless, If you are hopeful or hopeless, if you are convinced or if you're a if you are convinced or if you're a if you are convinced or if you're a doubter, today can be your day for a doubter, today can be your day for a doubter, today can be your day for a miracle. It's not up to you. miracle. It's not up to you. miracle. It's not up to you. It's not a formula. It's not a formula. It's not a formula. It's God's power and God's mercy at It's God's power and God's mercy at It's God's power and God's mercy at work. Would you bow your heads with me? work. Would you bow your heads with me? work. Would you bow your heads with me? God, I pray God, I pray God, I pray that you would do miracles that you would do miracles that you would do miracles for people in this room and people for people in this room and people for people in this room and people watching online. who feel like all hope is gone who feel like all hope is gone and who have no faith. I pray they would encounter you just I pray they would encounter you just like the envellet did. and that your power would interrupt and that your power would interrupt their hopelessness. Thank you, Lord, that it's not about us, Thank you, Lord, that it's not about us, what we say, what we do, what we say, what we do, what we say, what we do, even how we feel.

even how we feel. even how we feel. It's about you. It's about you. It's about you. You're God, You're God, You're God, and we're not. and we're not. and we're not. And so, we come to you. We run to you.