Here is a devotion to start your day!
Also available now at Power, Love & Miracles:
Hidden Heroes of the Bible: The Empty Tomb. Chapters 7-9
Nicodemus: Faith That Grows in the Dark. The Bible Unplugged podcast, episode 72
Hero: The Centurion at Capernaum
Humble faith from an unlikely source
Scripture: Luke 7:1–10
I didn’t even think myself worthy to come to you; but say the word, and my servant will be healed… When Jesus heard these things, he marveled at him, and turned and said… “I tell you, I have not found such great faith…
Reflection
Roman centurions were not usually seen as spiritual heroes. They represented the occupying force, the power of the empire. But this centurion in Capernaum is different.
He has a servant he deeply values who is sick and near death. Instead of dismissing the servant as replaceable, he cares. He sends Jewish elders to ask Jesus to come and heal him. The elders plead his case: “He loves our nation, and he built our synagogue for us.”
This is a man with power, but also with humility.
As Jesus approaches his house, the centurion sends friends with a surprising message: “Lord, don’t trouble yourself, for I am not worthy for you to come under my roof… say the word, and my servant will be healed.”
He understands authority. He knows what it means to give a command and see it carried out. He believes Jesus carries that kind of authority in the spiritual realm. He trusts that distance is not a barrier to Christ’s power.
Jesus marvels at him. “I tell you, I have not found such great faith, no, not in Israel.”
Sometimes deep faith comes from unexpected places.
You may feel like an unlikely candidate for “strong faith.” Maybe your past, your job, or your doubts make you think you’re on the outside spiritually. But like the centurion, you can come to Jesus with humility and confidence:
Humility: “I am not worthy.”
Confidence: “But You are able. Say the word.”
Hidden heroes are people who recognize Jesus’ authority and rest in it. They don’t demand; they simply trust that His word is enough.
Where do you need to say today, “Lord, I can’t fix this, but if You speak into it, things will change”?
Centering Prayer
Lord Jesus,
You hold all authority in heaven and on earth. I come to you neither boasting nor hiding in shame. I bring you my unworthiness and my need, trusting your heart and your word. Speak into the situations I cannot fix. Teach me to rest in your authority rather than my control. – Amen
Practice for Today
Identify one situation you’ve been trying hard to control. Consciously entrust it to Jesus’ authority in prayer, asking Him to “say the word” and lead you in your part.
Journaling Prompt
Where do I struggle more—with pride or with self-contempt? How does the centurion’s posture of humble trust challenge and invite me?
Closing Blessing
Stand today under the gentle authority of Christ.
Lay down the burden of proving your worth.
Trust the power of His word more than your own effort.
Live as one who is heard and honored by the Lord you revere.
Pray as You Go
Breathe in: Jesus, I trust Your word...
Breathe out: ... Your authority is enough
This work is freely shared. If it nourishes your life with God, you’re welcome to help sustain it.