“I believe God can; I just don’t know if he is willing.” Most of us have followed up a prayer with that sentiment at one time or another, but it’s really an unnecessary one. How do we know? Because in the Gospels, Jesus proved himself willing again and again. He answered both sides of the equation: Yes, he is able. And yes, he is willing.
We see that clearly in Mark, first when a leper comes and pleads, “If you are willing, you can make me clean” (Mark 1:40). “I am willing,” Jesus answered as he healed him.
A few chapters later, a father approached on behalf of his son. “If you can do anything, take pity on us and help us.”
“If you can?” said Jesus. “Everything is possible for him who believes” (Mark 9:22-23).
As the exact image of God, Jesus expressed the Father’s power and love. There’s nothing lacking in either. Our faith or expectations may be an issue, but his love and power aren’t. Unanswered prayer is a call to come closer, look deeper, believe more certainly. When we do, we will find him willing and able—and always sufficient for every need.
