Tonight I had the opportunity to listen to a powerful message by Pastor Duane VanderKlok of Resurrection Life Church in Grand Rapids — a pastor many of you may recognize from his long-running television ministry. His teaching stirred something deep within me, and I believe it’s a word in season for anyone building something — a business, a ministry, a dream — and needing to hear from God.
His message was on having “Mega Faith” like the Syro-Phoenician woman in Matthew 15.
The Woman with Great Faith
This woman came to Jesus desperate for her daughter’s healing. She cried out for mercy, believing that Jesus could and would help her. Yet, instead of immediate compassion, Jesus ignored her. Then, when she persisted, He denied her — even comparing her to someone outside the covenant blessings of Israel.
Still, she refused to give up. Her persistence, humility, and faith broke through every barrier. Finally, Jesus said to her:
“Woman, you have great faith! Your request is granted.”
— Matthew 15:28 (NIV)
He didn’t say, “You’ve worn Me down” or “I’ll do this just to quiet you.”
He said, “You have great faith.”
Why Faith Matters
That statement should make every believer stop and think. Why did Jesus honor her persistence as faith?
Hebrews 11:6 answers it clearly:
“And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to Him must believe that He exists and that He rewards those who earnestly seek Him.”
Notice the two parts:
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Believe that God exists.
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Believe that He rewards those who earnestly seek Him.
The first part — believing God exists — comes naturally to most believers.
But the second part is where many stumble.
Do you really believe that God rewards those who seek Him?
Or do you approach prayer like a lottery ticket — hoping maybe this time God will “do something” about your situation?
Faith Is Not a Guess
When we say, “Let’s pray and see if God does something,” we’re already introducing doubt into the conversation.
Instead, pray with confidence, knowing God hears you and is faithful to respond in His perfect way and time.
What happens after you pray is just as important as the prayer itself.
Your actions, words, and mindset afterward show God what you truly believe about Him.
Faith in Action
If you pray for God’s provision but spend the rest of the day complaining about lack or criticizing others who prosper, you’re sending a mixed message to Heaven.
Faith-filled prayer must be followed by faith-filled speech and faith-driven action.
So here’s the pattern Pastor Duane reminded us of — simple yet powerful:
Pray. Listen. Stand in Faith. Listen again. Speak life. And keep listening.
Faith is not passive. It listens actively and responds confidently.
Final Encouragement
If you’re praying for your business, your ministry, or your next big step — believe that God not only exists, but that He is a rewarder.
Keep your words aligned with your prayers.
Keep your spirit tuned to listen.
And when you don’t yet see the answer, keep standing in Mega Faith.
Next time, I’ll share powerful prayers and biblical affirmations to help you speak life over your business and keep your words in line with your faith. Stay tuned!
