Forthright Magazine http://www.forthright.net Straight to the Cross COLUMN: Final Phase Privately by J. Randal Matheny "Then the disciples came to Jesus privately and said, 'Why could we not cast it out?'" (Matthew 17:19, NRSV). Far from the crowd, in private with Jesus, I learn why my best efforts weren't enough. He will tell me, if I'll only go to him. He will show me my wrong motives. When Jesus was away where God showed his glory, I wanted to be the one to stand out. Ambition killed my success. He will point out my lack of faith. I thought I had it down pat. "I can do this. Stand back everybody, and watch things happen." But nothing happened. My efforts depended upon my strength, not his. He will point me to success. Little faith is no faith at all. Any "amount" of faith can deal with the challenges, for the power is not in my faith but in its object, the omnipotent God. Jesus will answer my question. But first I must go to him, ask the private question that hurts to ask, shut up, and listen to what he has to say. And I will be grateful that Jesus not only helps me grow in my mistake, but himself blesses another where I failed. ---- Read this article online, tell us what you think, see who's commenting, click here: http://forthright.antville.org/stories/842908 ---- You can help us get the word out. Here's how: http://forthright.antville.org/stories/340415/