Devotional thoughts on Luke 8:26-36

By Rachel Friel

Have you ever questioned the ways of God? Have there been times in your life when your heart was so broken that you looked up to the heavens and asked, “Are you here, God? How could this happen?” 

As followers of Christ there are seasons in life where our faith is challenged, where we are left to say as David said in Psalm 63:1, “My soul thirsts for you, my flesh longs for you in a dry and weary land where there is no water” (New King James Version). Yet in the end of these seasons, we are able to look to the heavens with a restored and recovered faith, singing a new song (Psalm 40). How can our faith be recovered in this way?

Our Recognition

In Luke 8 we are introduced to a demon-possessed man living in the tombs of Gerasenes. When Jesus and the disciples stepped onto land they were immediately met by a naked man, begging Jesus for freedom. 

Reader, I want to ask you, have you come to face-to-face with your “demon”? Not a literal demon, but do you know what is stealing abundant life away from you? Your heart could be heavy with grief and sorrow. You may be facing sickness, worry, and fear. Your battle may be against selfishness, anger, pride, unforgiveness. You may struggle with an eating disorder or alcohol abuse or depression. Whatever it is, God is longing to set you free. 

Our Reaction

Jesus granted Legion’s request, sending the demons into a herd of swine on the mountain. Legion was then found at the feet of Jesus where I believe he was worshipping with a thankful heart. When it came time for Jesus to depart, Legion begged to stay with Jesus. Yet Jesus told him, “Return to your own house, and tell what great things God has done for you” (Luke 8:39, NKJV). When Jesus sets us free, what a great story we have! Only God can turn our turn our mourning into dancing (Psalm 60:11), give us the oil of joy instead of mourning (Isaiah 61:3), a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair (Isaiah 61:3). 

I encourage you to recognize your need for freedom, asking Jesus to restore your weary heart again and again. I promise the reward is great.

Rachel Friel is a second grade teacher in Yadkinville, North Carolina. She loves reading, camping, hiking, sharing her love for Christ, and sharing life with her fun husband, J. J.