Re:Verse reading–Luke 7:36-50 (day four)
Be careful what you think! Jesus knew the thoughts and intentions of the Pharisee’s heart. This religious leader, who held strictly to the letter of the Law, undoubtedly wanted to trick Jesus into saying or doing something that could be used against Him. An uninvited guest interrupted his plan though. This sinful woman was overcome with emotion…her tears flowed freely. She was lavish with her attention to Jesus’ needs as she anointed His feet with perfume. “Your sins have been forgiven.”
Was it her emotional feelings or her works to serve Jesus that brought her forgiveness? Many believe if they have more good works than bad ones, they will be judged righteous and forgiven by God. This woman’s actions were the overflow of something else…Jesus gives us the answer. Verse 50 says it was her faith that saved her. Remember…Jesus knew the intentions of the heart. “By grace you have been saved through faith; not of works, and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; lest any man should boast.” (Ephesians 2:8-9)
I believe that the woman sinner’s trust and believing in Jesus was the basis for God’s grace and forgiveness of her sins. She came to Jesus for repentance of her sins. Her extraordinary way of welcoming Jesus was a reflection of what was in her heart and her surrender of herself to Jesus. Her faith was justified by her attitude, behavior and action toward Jesus! Faith is defined as believing in something that we have not seen. She believed in Jesus and that was sufficient for forgiveness of her sins in my view.
I firmly believe that there is a connection between faith and forgiveness and there is a connection between faith and healing! Faith is the core ingredient for forgiveness and for healing! I am interested in seeing more research on the topic of the connection of faith and healing.
I totally agreed that God knows what is in our hearts! No one can deceive Him! He created us in His own image so He knows everything about us and in our hearts. Through repentance of our sins and by faith in God, we will be forgiven. By faith, we will be healed. Seek God, ask and it will be given to us. God is love and faithful to His believers. He grants His grace and mercy to those who seek Him through Jesus Christ. I am convinced! I have the faith.