Holding God to His Word

Old Testament: Gen. 32:22-32
Epistle: 1 Thess. 4:1-7
Gospel: Matt. 15:21-28

Jacob wrestled with God; he would not let Him go until he received a blessing from Him (Gen. 32:22-32). So it was with the Canaanite woman. Though Jesus seemed to ignore and reject her, she continued to call upon His name and look to Him for help (Mt. 15:21-28). Even when the Lord called her a little dog, she held on to Him in faith and would not let Him wriggle out of His words: "Yes, Lord, yet even the dogs eat the crumbs that fall from their masters' table." This Gentile woman shows herself to be a true Israelite, who struggles with God and man in Christ and prevails. "O woman, great is your faith! Be it done for you as you desire" (Mt. 15:27-28). This is the sanctifying will of God (1 Thess. 4:1-7)-to test your faith in order that it may be refined and strengthened. For tribulation produces perseverance; perseverance, character; character, hope. And hope in Christ does not disappoint (Rom. 5:1-5).