READING: Judges 16-19, Luke 12:49-13:17
We don’t know all the details of her life, but we do know this woman had suffered a disabling condition for a number of years. More than eighteen, in fact. She had been bound in her condition, and you can just sense her ongoing anguish as you read her story. For almost two decades, she could not stand upright. The text also reminds us that a spirit had caused her condition—so she was both physically and spiritually in trouble.
For eighteen years she had suffered, and apparently no one was able to give her relief. Until now, that is.
This day, she met Jesus, the Son of God, the Master of demons and sickness. What no one else could do, He did: “Then he laid his hands on her, and instantly she was restored and began to glorify God” (Luke 13:13). A miracle happened in her life when Jesus showed up. Indeed, the contrast between “eighteen years” of enduring pain and “instantly” experiencing complete healing could not be more stark. The length of one’s oppression by demonic forces is no factor in how quickly Jesus brings freedom.
I remain grateful today that Jesus steps into our chaotic, bound-up existence and restores us in freedom. He who healed this woman is the same One who heals us.
PRAYER: “I praise You, Lord, for Your power.”
DAILY ACTION STEP: Pray now for someone who seems to be in bondage to the devil and his forces.
TOMORROW’S READING: Judges 20-21, Luke 13:18-14:11
