Let’s look at the opportunity to overcome fear with belief in today’s verse from the courage challenge.
"Do not fear" when there's lots to fear
Just look at this verse, at Jesus’ words, is powerful enough. But when I expanded to look at the context of this passage (Mark 5:21-43), I was floored. First, the verse. Then we will look at the context.
But overhearing what they said, Jesus said to the ruler of the synagogue, “Do not fear, only believe.”
All right so here’s the context: Jesus is asked to heal Jairus’ daughter. On the way, Jesus heals a woman of a chronic illness simply because she touches his robe in faith. But when he gets to Jairus’ house, the people announce that his daughter is dead. Jesus’ response: “Do not fear, only believe.”
I’m not sure what my response would be to someone telling me anything bad had happened to my daughter, let alone if she were to die. But I know that I would need a reminder away from fear and toward belief because that would not be my first response.
In this life there are plenty of opportunities to be afraid. There are very real and very scary things happening, from a global level all the way down to things in our individual lives.
And to it all God calls us away from fear, to replace it with belief instead. Belief in Him, in His goodness in spite of the circumstances. In His sovereign control over all of life and time and history.
Courage in real life
I’m privileged to study the book of Acts alongside some of the most courageous women I know. God has walked these women, and in some cases is currently walking these women, through the valley of the shadow of death.
And each week they show up to study with so much grace, courage, and compassion in spite of the heartbreak and struggle. I am so thankful to do life alongside them.
What's happening?
We’re studying courage through Scripture and daily life every day this month. Learn all about how to join me here.
