“When Jesus returned to Capernaum, a Roman officer came and pleaded with Him, ‘Lord, my young servant lies in bed, paralyzed and in terrible pain.’

Jesus said, ‘I will come and heal him.’

But the officer said, ‘Lord, I am not worthy to have You come into my home. Just say the word from where You are, and my servant will be healed.

I know this because I am under the authority of my superior officers, and I have authority over my soldiers. I only need to say, “Go,” and they go, or “Come,” and they come. And if I say to my slaves, “Do this,” they do it.’

When Jesus heard this, He was amazed. Turning to those who were following Him, He said, ‘I tell you the truth, I haven’t seen faith like this in all Israel!’”

— Matthew 8:5–10 NLT

What Is Faith?

“Faith shows the reality of what we hope for; it is the evidence of things we cannot see.”

— Hebrews 11:1 NLT

This Roman officer had the kind of faith that I strive for—and I hope and pray that you do too. When I read this passage, I had to take a step back. I realized that while I knew what faith was, this story revealed an even deeper understanding of what it looks like to truly believe.

This man knew the power Jesus carried. He believed without a shadow of a doubt. And it made me ask myself—why do I sometimes doubt God’s power? I can read about Jesus performing miracles in Matthew and about the apostles doing the same in Acts, yet still wonder if God can do those things today.

But notice—this passage doesn’t say anything about the Roman officer’s goodness or worthiness. What qualified him for a miracle wasn’t his performance—it was his belief. He trusted completely that Jesus had the authority and the power to do what He said He would do (Isaiah 53).

  

How Do You Get That Kind of Faith?

First, understand that faith grows out of a real encounter and relationship with God. When you begin to truly know Him—His love, His peace, His heart for you—your faith naturally strengthens.

God is loving. He gives peace that transcends understanding. He carries our burdens—our anxiety, depression, and even suicidal thoughts. He wants to heal every part of us—spirit, soul, and body.

“So then faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.”

— Romans 10:17 NKJV

If you want to grow your faith, start by spending time in His Word. Read what He says about who He is and what He wants for you. The Word of God reveals His heart, and when you know His heart, faith follows.

Ask God to Increase Your Faith

“The apostles said to the Lord, ‘Increase our faith.’”

— Luke 17:5 NKJV

Another way to strengthen your faith is to simply ask. Be honest and vulnerable with God. He already knows your doubts and struggles, and He welcomes your honesty.

The enemy’s number one tactic is to make you feel unworthy or inadequate to approach God. Don’t fall for that lie. When you feel weak in faith, that’s the perfect time to run to Him—not hide from Him. Tell Him where you struggle, and ask Him to help your unbelief.

God isn’t intimidated by your doubts. He’s ready to meet you there—and grow your faith into something that amazes even Jesus.

 

Prayer

Lord, thank You for today! I boldly come to Your throne room and ask You for a new sense of faith.
Lord, I want that same type of faith that the Roman officer had.
God, I love You and I praise You.
In the mighty name of Jesus, Amen.