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 one who believes.” Immediately the boy’s father exclaimed, “I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief!” – Mark 9:21-24
The poor father’s response to Jesus’ question of belief is both honest and raw. “Lord, I believe; help my unbelief!” It’s a moment of deep vulnerability, where faith and doubt seem to coexist. The father believes in Jesus’ power – why else would he have come to Him? But at the same time, he’s painfully aware of his struggle to fully trust.
Faith doesn’t always mean having everything figured out or being completely free of doubt. Faith is the willingness to come to Jesus, even with our questions, even with our uncertainty. The father’s plea isn’t a rejection of God’s promise, but rather an acknowledgment of how hard it can sometimes be to grasp it fully. He longs for the truth, but it seems almost too good to be true. And in that tension, he asks Jesus to bridge the gap: “Help my unbelief!”
We’ve all been there. When the world seems overwhelming, when the pain and suffering challenge our understanding, doubts can creep in. Yet God invites us to bring those doubts to Him, just like this father did. He doesn’t demand perfect faith; He welcomes a heart that is willing to wrestle and grow in faith. Even in our struggles, God is patient with us, meeting us right where we are.
“Help my unbelief” is not a cry of rebellion but a cry for more of God. It’s a declaration that we trust Him enough to be honest about our struggles, trusting that He can and will meet us in our weakness. The presence of doubt doesn’t cancel out the presence of faith – it shows that we’re wrestling with the truth, seeking to hold on to the promises of God, even when they feel distant.
So today, if you find yourself in a place where you want to believe but feel the weight of doubt, remember that Jesus hears those words. He is ready to meet you and help you along the way. Take comfort in knowing that you don’t have to hide your struggles. Like the father, come as you are, and trust that God is faithful to help you through.
“Help my unbelief” is something a man can only say by faith. While men have no faith, they are unconscious of their unbelief; but, as soon as they get a little faith, then they begin to be conscious of the greatness of their unbelief. – C. H. Spurgeon
Former Blackout Artist 