Jul 13 – Take Courage, My Son!

“Son, be of good cheer; your sins are forgiven you.” (Matthew 9:2)

The world seeks in many ways to discourage and weary us. Satan brings sorrow, disappointment, and despair. Harsh words spoken by people can wound the heart and leave us burdened. But our loving Lord is always the One who comforts, strengthens, and restores His children.

Consider for a moment what Jesus said to the paralytic: “Son, be of good cheer; your sins are forgiven you.”

When the paralytic was lowered before Christ, those around him may have thought, “He is suffering because of the sins of his ancestors; let him bear the consequences.” But the man himself was completely worn down by his condition.

He was dependent on others for everything. His infirmity was a burden not only to himself but also to those who cared for him. Yet the Lord looked upon him with compassion and first addressed him as “Son.”

What a tender and reassuring word! It was as though the Lord was saying: “You are My child. I created you in My image and likeness. You belong to Me.” How greatly those words must have strengthened that suffering man!

Children of God, perhaps you too are discouraged today. Perhaps your heart is weary and your spirit faint. Yet the Lord lovingly calls you “My son” or “My daughter.” Pause and meditate on that divine voice. Let your ears hear the loving call of your Heavenly Father.

Secondly, Jesus said, “Be of good cheer.” When you take courage, divine strength begins to rise within you. When you are encouraged in the Lord, heavenly power fills your heart. Courage transforms ordinary believers into warriors of faith.

Thirdly, Jesus declared, “Your sins are forgiven you.” The Lord understood the deeper cause behind the man’s suffering. Rather than merely addressing the outward condition, He chose to deal with the root cause. By removing the burden of sin, He was bringing a complete and lasting restoration.

The Lord did not want to send him away with only a temporary relief. He determined to uproot the very source of his bondage. As a result, the man received two miracles: physical healing in his body, and spiritual healing in his soul.

The paralysis that afflicted his body was removed, and the sickness of sin that burdened his soul was also taken away. Hallelujah!

Verse for further meditation: “But that you may know that the Son of Man has power on earth to forgive sins”—then He said to the paralytic, “Arise, take up your bed, and go to your house.” And he arose and departed to his house. (Matthew 9:6–7)