Unbelief is different than doubt. Doubts come and go. They are normal and a natural part of the human experience. But unbelief is a conclusion reached by a hardened heart. It is the decision to live life apart from God. Faith and doubt can coexist in a heart, but faith and unbelief cannot.

I. Unbelief Respects His Wisdom (vv. 1-2)

II. Unbelief Recognizes His Work (v. 2)

III. Unbelief Reduces His Wonder (v. 3)

IV. Unbelief Robs of Well-Being (vv. 4-6)

Learn Your Bible: Using your favorite Bible dictionary or concordance, dive deeper into the differences between doubt and unbelief in Scripture.

Love Your Neighbor: This week, dedicate yourself to interceding for someone in your life who’s embraced unbelief.

Live in Freedom: Have an honest conversation with the Lord about the doubts or questions you’ve been working through lately.

Two miraculous healings are sandwiched together in this text. But one of these miracles brought a delay. It seemed like Jesus waited too long. But when circumstances say, “It’s over,” Jesus says, “Do not be afraid; only believe” (v. 36). Delays aren’t necessarily denials; sometimes they’re upgrades.

I. A Desperate Father (vv. 21-24)

II. A Determined Sufferer (vv. 25-34)

III. A Delayed Answer (vv. 35-36)

IV. A Different Procedure (vv. 37-43)

Learn Your Bible: What voices in your life are currently telling you to be afraid, give up, or stop believing? Spend time in the Word and focus on giving greater weight to Jesus’ words than to fear, doubt, or despair.

Love Your Neighbor: Is there someone in your community who may feel unseen, interrupted, or forgotten? Find one practical way you can treat them with dignity and compassion this week.

Live in Freedom: What fear, disappointment, or “late” situation are you tempted to believe is beyond Jesus’ reach? Ask the Lord to help you surrender those things to Him.