September 15 — "Don’t Stop Believing"

Today's Reading: Matthew 15:21-39

What are the odds Jesus would point at you and say, “Now that’s great faith”? Or is it more likely that He would He raise an eyebrow and sigh, “O you of little faith,” like He did with the disciples?

In Matthew 15, we meet a woman who defies every expectation. She’s a Canaanite. Today we would call her a Palestinian—a Gentile, an outsider—and she’s desperate. Her daughter is tormented by a demon, and she comes to Jesus pleading for help. At first, He’s silent. Then seemingly dismissive. Then resistant. But this woman? Oh, she’s not going anywhere.

She bulldozes through cultural barriers, religious walls, and divine silence with a faith so fierce, Jesus finally says, “O woman, great is your faith! Be it done for you as you desire.” Boom—her daughter is delivered instantly.

Here’s the big takeaway: great faith grabs hold of Jesus and refuses to let go, even when the odds look bleak and Heaven seems quiet. On many occasions, Jesus marveled at how little faith people had—even His own disciples who had front-row seats to His miracles. But this woman? She gets a commendation from the Son of God. “Great is your faith.” That’s not just a compliment—it’s a divine endorsement.

Faith isn’t always polished. Sometimes it’s messy, gritty, and full of struggle. But God isn’t annoyed by your persistence—He’s moved by it. Jesus didn’t shut this woman down; He drew her faith out and let it shine.

Hebrews 11:6 reminds us: “Without faith it’s impossible to please God.” But those who seek Him diligently—and believe Him relentlessly? They’re rewarded. This woman lived that verse out loud.

So here’s your holy nudge: Don’t stop praying for your unsaved loved ones. Don’t quit asking for healing. Don’t stop knocking. Don’t stop believing God’s promises—even when they feel delayed. Don’t stop worshiping when life feels heavy.  Don’t stop forgiving—even when it’s the four-hundredth time. Don’t stop showing up. This “don’t stop” type of faith is the type that Jesus honors. And the faith that presses in will see Jesus move.

Her greatness wasn’t in her strength—it was in her stubborn grip on Jesus. May your prayers be fierce, your trust bold, and your heart ready to hear Him say, “Great is your faith.”