Taking Him at His word

There's a remarkable story in the book of John where dad comes to Jesus begging for his son's life.

Once more he [Jesus] visited Cana in Galilee, where he had turned the water into wine. And there was a certain royal official whose son lay sick at Capernaum. When this man heard that Jesus had arrived in Galilee from Judea, he went to him and begged him to come and heal his son, who was close to death.

"Unless you people see miraculous signs and wonders," Jesus told him, "you will never believe."

The royal official said, "Sir, come down before my child dies."

Jesus replied, "You may go. Your son will live."

The man took Jesus at his word and departed. While he was still on the way, his servants met him with the news that his boy was living. When he inquired as to the time when his son got better, they said to him, "The fever left him yesterday at the seventh hour."

Then the father realized that this was the exact time at which Jesus had said to him, "Your son will live." So he and all his household believed. (John 4:46-53)

Part of what was miraculous about this story is that this was only Jesus' second miracle (verse 54). There had not been time for His reputation to spread through the area. No healing had been noted so far. Just a case of wine at a wedding. What prompted this man to believe Jesus could save his son?

I'm sure there were a number of reasons. But here, in my opinion, is the real miracle.

The man took Jesus at his word (verse 50). Then he left. That was enough for him. And he got home to find his son whole again.

What would happen if we took Jesus at his word? Here's just a start:

Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid. (John 14:27)

Again, I tell you that if two of you on earth agree about anything you ask for, it will be done for you by my Father in heaven. (Matthew 18:19)

Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat; or about your body, what you will wear. Life is more than food, and the body more than clothes. ... But seek his kingdom, and these things will be given to you as well. (Luke 12:22-23, 31)

And the prayer offered in faith will make the sick person well; the Lord will raise him up. If he has sinned, he will be forgiven. (James 5:15)

...if you confess with your mouth, "Jesus is Lord," and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. (Romans 10:9)

I'd encourage you today to find out what Jesus has said. And then take Him at his word.