It happened when Jesus was traveling to the area of the foreigners
A Canaanite woman ask Jesus for help. This is because she knew that a special person has the ability to help her.
Jesus did not reply her immediately but Jesus tested her first.
We sometimes have testing from God too when we ask for help.
Four tests
1) even if you cry out Jesus did not reply v.23. the disciples were irritated but she did not care as she wanted her child to be rid of the evil spirit.
Today if we ask someone for help and the person is quiet we will probably stop but she did not stop and persist on.
2) disciples told her to leave and keep quiet.
She probably has been following for a long time. Disciples did not know why she was following them. The disciples did not have any Mercy. They will focus on the traveling and did not notice her but the Canaanite woman was persistent.
3) a test on her by rejecting her
Jesus sat I was sent only to the Lost sheep. V.25. she continued to ask Lord help me
She knows she do not deserve the mercy but she asked for help.
Like us we do not deserve God`s forgiveness but Jesus gave Us by dying on the cross for us giving us unconditional love. We must not doubt God`s love again.
4) Jesus said to take the children`s food and give to dogs.
Meaning it`s not right for her to ask for help from Jesus.
Food for children refers to the Israelites dogs refer to the foreigners that the Jews discriminate against.
Jesus used the what dog here to refer to the puppies and not about discrimination
Jesus never discriminate or look down she is still not deterred but she continue asking for help.
Characteristics of a person who refuses to be defeated
1) insistent on helping her child
2) try to cross over the barriers in front of her
That are many barriers in front of us. They may be tests by God and others from the world. We must be fully confident about God and that God will help us God can see about our troubles.
Lessons
1) do not give up
2) try to overcome barriers
3) be humbled herself refer to the dog as herself waiting for the food.
