GraceNotes

Afraid
Mark 4:40
Jim Stephens
10-29-09

Scripture:

Then he asked them, "Why are you afraid? Do you still not have faith in me?"  (Mark 4:40 NLT)

Jesus' closest followers were just coming off a season of miracles and healings and teachings that got them really excited and faith-filled. Then they faced danger in the boat in the storm and they panicked.

When the storm became fierce and the boat started to fill with water, they frantically woke Jesus from his nap, shouting. "Don't you even care that we are going to drown?" Jesus' question implied that the faith that was stirred up by the things they had already seen and experienced should carry over into the present challenge they were facing.

I need to hear Jesus' question, "Why are you afraid? Do you still not have faith in me?" pretty often, I'm afraid. I have a lifetime of experiences in which I've seen the faithfulness and ability of God demonstrated in large and small ways and still I find myself sayin g, "Jesus, don't you even care that we are going to drown?"

My lesson for the day: "Recalling our past experiences of God's power, protection, and provision will calm our fears and inspire faith as we face today's storm."

I know it's hard to do when the waves are high, the wind is howling, and you're bailing water out of the boat like crazy, but take a moment to quiet your racing mind, open your trusting heart, and remember how God protected you and provided for you in past storms and challenges. Then prayerfully affirm your faith in his present provision and protection.

Prayer:

Father forgive me for doubting you. I believe you have the power to do all things. I believe you have the wisdom to know what needs to be done and how and when to do it. I believe you love me with unconditional love and want the very best for me. I trust you in today's storm. As I trust you today, I know your faithful protecti on and provision will see me through. Thanks, Father. I do trust you. Amen.

Copyright 2009 Resource Ministries International
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