Break Free and Live in TruthSample

Believing God

When I was struggling to overcome bulimia, I didn’t go through the traditional means of recovery through a doctor or therapist. However, I did have the Great Physician (Jesus) and Wonderful Counselor (Holy Spirit). I also had the support of godly women in my Bible study group who encouraged me and spoke truth into my life.

Breaking free from a stronghold is difficult. It feels as though you are a prisoner in your own body, unable to break free from the chains that bind you. Thankfully, God helps us find the key to unlock our prison door.

The key to my own freedom was found in the book of Mark, chapter nine when I had read about a father who brought his demon possessed son to Jesus to be healed.

Jesus asked the boy’s father, “How long has he been like this?" "From childhood," he answered. "It has often thrown him into fire or water to kill him. But if you can do anything, take pity on us and help us.” “If you can?” said Jesus. “Everything is possible for him who believes.” Immediately the boy’s father exclaimed, “I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief!” (Mark 9:21-24)

As soon as I read this passage, I realized, I had some deep-rooted unbelief in my heart. Sure, I believed God had healed others. But I wasn’t convinced God would heal me. I’ve heard it said the longest distance man will ever travel is the seventeen inches from his head to his heart. How very true!

Later in that same passage, the disciples asked Jesus why they were unable to drive the demon out of the boy. Jesus told them, “This kind can come out only by prayer” (Mark 9:29).

I suddenly realized prayer was the key to my freedom. So I began praying every day—God, help me overcome my unbelief. Little by little, I began trusting God with my eating disorder. Eventually I said, “Alright God, I’m going to take you at your Word here and believe you can heal me.”

God was always capable; He was just waiting for me to believe it.

Perhaps you are struggling to believe whether God can (or will) heal you. Take that long journey from your head to your heart and God will help you overcome unbelief.

Personal Reflection

• Do you believe God can, or will, heal you?
• If not, what might be getting in the way of you believing Him completely?
• Take time to pray every day for as long as it takes, asking God to help you overcome your unbelief.

Prayer

Lord Jesus, you are all-powerful, all-knowing, and ever-present. You know me inside and out. You have a plan and purpose for my life. You want me free. I want to be free, too! You tell me in your Word that I can ask anything in Jesus’ name and it will be done. Father God, in Jesus’ name, help me overcome my unbelief. Amen.