The Children for Christ by Andrew Murray

e born again, changed from being the children of the devil and
enemies of God to be His friends and children. Honor God by
confessing their sin fully and clearly, and acknowledging His righteous
judgment; ask distinctly and definitely for a full salvation.
Her prayer’s refusal is the second lesson this woman has to teach us.
Christ appeared to turn a deaf ear to her prayer. At first He did not
answer her a word. When He did speak, His answer was worse than His
silence; it cut off all hope. He was not sent to the heathen. A second
answer, given as she had come nearer and had again worshiped Him,
saying, Lord, help me! appeared to heap contempt on her misfortune:
she was not only a heathen, but a dog. A true picture of what passes in
the heart of many a pleading parent! They hear of Christ’s love and
power, and begin to pray with great urgency. But He answers not a
word: there is no sign of thought or change on the part of the lost one.
Still they pray, and it is as if the power of sin grows stronger, and the
loved one only wanders farther off. Conscience begins to speak of
parental sin and unworthiness. Others, who are holier, and have more
power with God, may be heard: how can we expect that God should
work a miracle for us? And the parent settles down in a quiet
despondency, or a vague hope that tries to shut its eyes to its own
wretchedness. Oh, the dark, heartrending uncertainty as to the
salvation of that child!
Her faith and perseverance. It is for this specially that the mother’s
example is held up to us. She refused to be denied. She met silence and
argument and contempt alike with one weapon — more prayer, more
trust. She had heard of the wondrous Man and His compassion; she saw
it in His face; she heard it even in the voice that refused her; she would
not believe He could send her away empty. She hoped against hope; she
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