Faith That Refuses To Give Up

FAITH THAT REFUSES TO GIVE UP

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Matthew 15:21-28

Supporting Texts: Hebrews 11:6, Mark 11:24, Luke 18:1–8, James 1:6, Romans 4:20–21

INTRODUCTION:

There are seasons in life when everything seems to be working against us. In those times, our faith is tested—not by the presence of trials but by heaven's silence. This was the experience of the Canaanite woman in today’s passage. She had every reason to turn back, yet she persisted.

The story in Matthew 15:21–28 is not just a lesson on healing. It is a masterclass in persistent, unrelenting faith. It teaches us that sometimes, answers don’t come immediately, but faith that holds on will always win.

In this message, we shall explore the dimensions of the woman’s faith that provoked divine attention and led to supernatural intervention.

1. HER FAITH BEGAN WITH A DESPERATE CRY

a) She recognised her need (Matthew 15:22).

Desperation for divine help is the beginning of true faith.

b) She knew who Jesus was.

Addressing Him as “Son of David” showed she recognised His messianic identity.

c) She cried to the right source.

Faith is not just about believing—it is believing in the right person.

d) Her cry was specific and personal.

She wasn't asking generally; she had a targeted need.

Biblical Example: Blind Bartimaeus also cried out persistently until Jesus stopped (Mark 10:46–52).

2. HER FAITH SURVIVED SILENCE

a) Jesus answered her not a word (v. 23)

Sometimes silence is a test, not a rejection.

b) She kept pressing despite the silence.

Real faith keeps believing even when heaven seems quiet.

c) The disciples tried to discourage her.

People may misunderstand your persistence.

d) Delay is not denial.

Faith waits in hope even when there is no immediate response.

Biblical Example: Hannah kept praying even when Eli misunderstood her (1 Samuel 1:12–17).

3. HER FAITH PUSHED THROUGH REJECTION

a) Jesus reminded her of her outsider status (v. 24).

She was not of the house of Israel, yet she pressed on.

b) She worshipped in the midst of seeming rejection (v. 25).

Worship in pain reveals deep faith.

c) She humbled herself to God's process.

She didn’t argue, but acknowledged her position.

d) She still believed she could receive mercy.

Faith doesn’t take offence; it stays focused on the goal.

Biblical Example: The prodigal son humbled himself and returned, despite shame (Luke 15:17–24).

4. HER FAITH SPOKE THE RIGHT WORDS

a) She agreed with Jesus' assessment (v. 27).

“Truth, Lord”—faith submits to truth, not pride.

b) She saw hope even in crumbs.

A crumb from God is more than enough to change your life.

c) Her words showed wisdom and humility.

She spoke words that aligned with faith and honour.

d) She demonstrated unwavering trust.

She didn’t flinch even after being called a “dog”.

Biblical Example: The centurion also showed great faith through humble words (Matthew 8:5–10).

5. HER FAITH WAS FINALLY REWARDED

a) Jesus commended her faith openly (v. 28).

Her great faith became a testimony to all.

b) She received immediate results.

Faith that pleases God always brings answers.

c) Her daughter was healed at that very hour.

The miracle happened instantly.

d) She entered into a blessing meant for others.

Her faith broke through boundaries and protocols.

Biblical Example: The woman with the issue of blood received instant healing through persistent faith (Mark 5:25–34).

CONCLUSION:

Faith is not just belief—it is a persistent, humble, bold, and expectant attitude that refuses to give up. The Canaanite woman’s story shows that even when you're not qualified, faith can qualify you.

Are you facing a delay, silence, or rejection? Like this woman, don’t give up. Keep crying, keep worshipping, keep speaking in faith. Your miracle is on the way.

PRAYER POINTS

1. Lord, strengthen my faith in the face of delay and silence.

2. Father, help me to persevere until my answer comes.

3. I reject every spirit of discouragement and offence.

4. O Lord, let my faith move You to act on my behalf.

5. Lord, give me a miracle that defies human protocols.