#soap # Matthew 08 Tags: SOAP ## Title: Jesus is Willing ## Scripture: (Matthew 8:3) He stretched out his hand and touched him saying, “I am willing. Be clean!” Immediately his leprosy was cleansed. (NET) ## Observation: This is one of my favorite stories in all of Matthew. This leper had lost everything, including his hope for the future. He is face to face with Jesus. This is also a massive gamble because he is not supposed to be close to anyone. Leprosy was a death sentence. With his last remaining hope, he is not demanding anything of Jesus. He is acknowledging Jesus’ ability and is asking for His willingness. This is both faith and request. Jesus’ response? He says, “Of course I am willing to heal you.” What would it look like for us to approach God with this kind of humility? It reminds me of the story of the three Hebrew teenagers in the book of Daniel. When threatened with being thrown into a fire for not worshiping idols, they said that God was able to save them. However, even if He did not do it, they would still not serve the idols. This is powerful faith that God rewards with His favor. ## Application: During your prayer time today, have the posture of the man in this story. God is able to do anything. Pray and ask if He is willing to do it your way. Remember to confess that you will still serve Him either way. Watch how it lightens your heart as you realize no matter what happens, God is in control. ## Prayer: Thank You, Jesus, for having it all in Your powerful hands.