“I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief!” (Mark 9:24).

I never used to understand that passage. As I get older and see the war within me, the more I get it. In reality, I love Jesus, but I’m not always a big fan of some of the things he says, so I decide which part of his message I will promote and which part I will try to hide. 

I believe, but I don’t want to deny myself. 

I believe, but I don’t want to forgive as I have been forgiven. 

I believe, but I don’t want to talk humbly to you about your sin. 

I believe, but I don’t want to stop worrying. 

I believe, but I’m not willing to confess my sins.

This is why the good news of Jesus is so important. Because we hear that “God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us” (Romans 5:8). Even while we were against him (not even believing), God was for us. He sent Jesus to live and die for us, buying us back from Satan, who owned us. Now the Holy Spirit works in us, reminding us that there are no “buts.” 

Now, like every high school fan base, we get to cheer, “I believe. . . . I believe that. . . . . I believe that we. . . . . I believe that we will win.” 

Forever.