"Are we wrestling with angels?"
Matthew 9:4-8
But Jesus, knowing their thoughts, said, “Why do you think evil in your hearts? [5] For which is easier, to say, ‘Your sins are forgiven,’ or to say, ‘Rise and walk’? [6] But that you may know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins”—he then said to the paralytic—“Rise, pick up your bed and go home.” [7] And he rose and went home. [8] When the crowds saw it, they were afraid, and they glorified God, who had given such authority to men.
"Are we wrestling with angels?"
"God has the power to heal and forgive...
Will the healing bring Him glory?
God knows what's in our hearts and where our actions will lead us. He knows us better than we know ourselves.
Some people will believe, and for others, it will be seen as coincidence or luck.
It's the believers who bring Him the glory.
It's the believers who get up and walk. Nothing is impossible for God!
If it takes proof for a person to believe, then they need to only look around. See what God has made. See what He's allowed us to accomplish.
Romans 1:19-20
"For what can be known about God is plain to them, because God has shown it to them." [20] For his invisible attributes, namely, his eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly perceived, ever since the creation of the world, in the things that have been made. So they are without excuse.
"Doubt is something that He has allowed. He gave us a choice when He gave us "free will".
John 1:12
"But to all who did receive him, who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God"
Joshua 24:15
"And if it is evil in your eyes to serve the Lord, choose this day whom you will serve."
"But, doubters should do themselves a favor first...Ask a man who has walked away healed and saved, find out what he knows!"
It's why we share our testimonies;
"Tell others what you know.. because we are this man!"
Just ask the people who have seen us, day in and day out, before we met Jesus...
Ask them about the difference He has made. There was probably a time when they thought it would be impossible, too.
Ask them to tell us now that there is no God! Tell us now there is no hope! Tell us now they will not believe!
God will simply hide His face and refuse to listen!
Isaiah 59:2 ESV
[2] but your iniquities have made a separation between you and your God, and your sins have hidden his face from you so that he does not hear.
God has the ability to redeem and transform even the most flawed individuals, even change the minds of non-believers.
"Be careful when you fight with angels because in this story, God prevails."
The phrase 'wrestling with angels' symbolizes the internal struggle many face in recognizing divine intervention in their lives. In Matthew 9:4-8, Jesus demonstrates His authority to forgive sins and heal, emphasizing that belief can lead to remarkable change. Faith often requires us to confront our doubts and the influences of the world. Romans 1:19-20 reminds us that God’s presence is evident in creation, prompting introspection about our beliefs. The call for believers to testify about their experiences is crucial, revealing the transformative power of God that can shift perspectives. In sharing testimonies, individuals inspire others to recognize the active role of God in their journeys. These narratives serve as a testament to the fact that God redeems and transforms even the most flawed. As believers, it becomes essential to invite those wrestling with doubts to explore the truth of faith, encouraging them to see the evidence of God’s work in the lives of others. Doubt is part of the journey; it leads to deeper understanding when approached thoughtfully. Emphasizing free will, God allows individuals to choose their path, making the journey of faith a personal exploration. As we engage in discussions about belief, let's encourage open-hearted dialogues that foster understanding and uplift those questioning their faith. Ultimately, acknowledging our struggles and recognizing divine influence can lead to healing and renewal.