And He said to her “For this statement you may go your way; the demon has left your daughter.“ Mark 7:29
The story of the Syrophoenician Woman found in Mark 7 may be the most difficult story in the New Testament. When this woman came to Jesus she, like so many others, had a simple request: that her daughter would be healed. But Jesus denied her request. Yet, in the face of this rejection she persisted and her argument actually changed the mind of Jesus! All throughout Scripture we find these moments where the people who know God best are able to argue with God and challenge His decisions. I think of Abraham who argued with God over the destruction of Sodom. I think of Moses when he told God that He couldn’t destroy the people. I think of the prophets who interceded on behalf of the people when God had had enough of their blatant wickedness. And this gentile woman. Somehow she finds herself on the same level as Abraham, Moses, and the prophets. Somehow this woman who appears far from God’s redemptive story knows God so well that she is able to argue with Him and win!
These narratives reveal something spectacular about God’s character—God’s answer is not always absolute. That may seem strange to hear but Scripture shows us that He does not get upset if we challenge His decisions. He even seems to welcome it. I think the reason for this is simple: He cares more about you than He does the rules. In this there is a call for us to know God on such a deep, personal level that we may be bold enough in our prayers to challenge His decisions when appropriate.
Reflect on your life. Where have you conceded to God when you should have persisted?
How are you growing in the personal knowledge of God?
What would your spiritual life look like if you knew Him on such a level?
It is within reach. He invites you to know Him today.