bold faith – Be Still…

John 11:1-27 – What a Teachable Moment!

We have just gotten started with this story. The true miraculous sign is yet to come. But Jesus has pretty much already spilled the beans about that one. His disciples are about to see yet another jaw-dropping act of God. The setup in the first part of this Chapter is worth taking a look at all by itself, as it builds up to something beyond comprehension.

What we see Jesus do here is meant to teach and to bless. The teaching part comes first. Jesus knew that his disciples were having a hard time with their unbelief. It had to be hard to totally grasp that the Messiah you had been waiting for your whole life was standing there before you. Continue reading “John 11:1-27 – What a Teachable Moment!”

Mark 5:21-43 – Just Have Faith

Read Mark 5:21-43

Jesus doesn’t even have to know or be present to heal! We shouldn’t be surprised by that, but instead our faith should be exploding. These two accounts are perfect examples of God’s healing power at work in response to faith. Is our faith as bold?

These two individuals are quite different in their stories and their afflictions. Yet both knew that Jesus was the answer. Is there something you’re struggling with that Jesus can help you overcome? Tap into your faith and claim your own healing or restoration. Continue reading “Mark 5:21-43 – Just Have Faith”

Mark 2:1-17 – Bold Compassion

Read Mark 2:1-17

Jesus is definitely not afraid to ruffle feathers and go against what is expected for someone who teaches and heals. We should do a better job at being bold witnesses of our faith in Jesus. Watching Jesus’ examples and how he lived his life can give us clues for how we should be interacting with others.

Jesus wasn’t afraid of what people might think. He knew his mission, and he proceeded with boldness. He not only healed, but he also forgave. We’re only two chapters into the gospel of Mark, and already we see frustrated religious leaders. They are so focused on the law that they can’t see God in their midst. Continue reading “Mark 2:1-17 – Bold Compassion”

Acts 4:12 – No Other Way

“There is salvation in no one else! God has given no other name under heaven by which we must be saved.” (Acts 4:12)

The name of Jesus is powerful. It saves us awful sinners from death and eternal destruction. Nobody but Jesus can save us. This verse is a bold declaration to boost our trust and assurance. Why is it that so many people don’t understand this truth? Do you ever feel like you are the only one?

Context: Peter and John had been busy healing and teaching people that through Jesus there is resurrection of the dead. This upset some priests and Sadducees, who then confronted Peter and John and threw them in jail. When brought before the religious leaders to defend themselves, the Holy Spirit took over, and Peter called out the name of Jesus, giving him all the credit for such healings and salvation. The religious leaders were amazed yet knew they had to take control of the situation. Continue reading “Acts 4:12 – No Other Way”

Numbers 14:1-25 – When We Rebel

Read Numbers 14:1-25

How brave are you when venturing into the unknown? I think of Abraham and Sarah leaving all that was familiar to follow God’s leading. Even closer to home, I remember packing up our Prius with the necessities of life and our four dogs and crossing the border into Mexico.

It’s natural to be wary of new things. But I think Moses’ crowd of followers went a little overboard in their dramatic rebellion! I felt sorry for Moses and Aaron who “fell face down on the ground,” no doubt questioning everything about their leadership, feeling like they had let the people down. Continue reading “Numbers 14:1-25 – When We Rebel”