May 30 Daily Devotional

Believing in Miracles

Peter G. Feenstra

“Why do you think evil in your hearts? For which is easier, to say, ‘Your sins are forgiven,’ or to say, ‘Rise and walk’?” Matthew 9:4–5

Bible Reading

Matthew 9:1–8

Devotional

Do you believe miracles really happen? Before you answer that question you need to know, “What is a miracle?” People usually consider a miracle to be some supernatural act, something which goes against the laws of nature. It's considered a miracle when someone survives a very serious car accident. If a seventy-year-old woman had a baby we’d definitely consider that a miracle.

The Bible, however, gives us a different definition of a miracle. According to the Scriptures a miracle is a surprising act of God with a view to the coming of His kingdom. The Lord God, who creates and sustains the forces and laws of nature, may be pleased to produce an unusual event through the working of His almighty power. For example, according to the law of gravitation, iron sinks in water, but through God’s intervention and for His purpose, the iron can be made to float (2 Kings 6:16).

A miracle is not necessarily something which defies the laws of nature. The miracles in the earthly ministry of Jesus Christ confirmed the message He proclaimed and were not meant to demonstrate His supernatural ability. The Pharisees were offended by His miracles. After Jesus healed a paralytic they questioned His power to perform signs and wonders. Perceiving their questions He asked, “Which is easier: to say ‘Arise and walk,’ or, ‘Your sins are forgiven?’” We would think it more difficult to tell someone to rise and walk since it goes against the laws of nature. In reality the greater miracle was the forgiveness the man received.

The greatest miracle to ever occur is the conception and birth of the Messiah. Jesus Christ is the “Surprise” of history. The Son of God became human to redeem the world from evil. His conception and birth defied all the laws of nature. He was conceived by the Holy Spirit and born of a virgin. Our rational minds do not comprehend it. That’s why we cannot believe miracles happen unless we accept the Bible to be the infallible and inspired Word of God. Let us believe the miracle of God’s love in Jesus Christ whereby we can know without a doubt that our sins are forgiven and we may enjoy everlasting life.

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