A Life of Faith: Just Say the Word

by David Chadwick We are learning how to develop a life of faith. To strengthen muscles that can be used to stand in victory no matter what is happening around us. We need to increase our faith and cultivate faith like a child. And we must operate in our authority and “just say the word” when presented with situations that need faith to arise. Just say the word. What do I mean by this? It’s what the centurion said to Jesus in Matthew 8:8 when he wanted his beloved servant healed. The centurion was familiar with earthly authority because he would command 100 Roman soldiers to do this or that and they would obey him. As a man of earthly authority, the centurion knew Jesus carried authority over everything and approached him with tremendous faith. A key to faith as well: to believe Jesus’s authority over everything else at work. Somehow, some way, Jesus wants us to know this authority that he carried. And to use it ourselves. In Luke 10:17-20, we see that 72 people who Jesus sent out to do ministry returned with a great and exuberant awareness that “even the demons are subject to us in your name!” Jesus went on to say, “Behold, I have given you authority to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy, and nothing shall hurt you.” Isn’t that same authority given to the 72 for us as well? The centurion told Jesus, “Lord, I am not worthy to have you come under my roof, but only say the word, and my servant will be healed” (Matthew 8:8). Note his humility. His total dependence on Jesus. Just say the word. Jesus marveled at the centurion’s faith (Matthew 8:10). Would he marvel at your faith as well? Step out of your comfort zone. Practice a boldness Jesus would marvel at. Believe him at his word.