What Report Will You Believe?
Devotional Reading: Mark 5:36 KJV
As soon as Jesus heard the word that was spoken, he saith unto the ruler of the synagogue, Be not afraid, only believe.
Mark chapter five gives an account of two people who acted in faith despite the devastating circumstances they were experiencing. Jairus had just implored the Lord to come heal his daughter, who was at the point of death, when the woman with the issue of blood reached out and touched the Lord. The bible says that she believed that even if she could only touch the garment Jesus was wearing, she would be healed! What incredible faith! Jesus immediately stopped and asked who had touched Him.
When he learned of her story, He told her, “Your faith has made you well…” “While He was still speaking, some came from the ruler of the synagogue’s house who said, “Your daughter is dead. Why trouble the Teacher any further?” As soon as Jesus heard the word that was spoken, He said to the ruler of the synagogue, ‘Do not be afraid; only believe.’” (Mark 5:35-36)
Jairus had a choice in that moment to believe the Lord or believe the messenger who had just been sent by the eye witnesses who were with his daughter. Which word would carry more weight? Jesus immediately spoke to Jairus— “Do not be afraid; only believe.” In essence, He was saying, “I know what you’ve seen Jairus, I know what you just heard from the messenger, but I need you to keep your eyes on Me. I need you to trust my word over every other word right now. Don’t let that report bring any doubt into your mind, because I’m still headed to your house! I haven’t changed My mind. I’m not swayed by this news, and I’m not too late. Just trust Me!”
When we hear reports that seem impossible to overcome, we must not rely on our own understanding. The power of God defies all human reason. He is capable of doing more than we can ask, think or imagine! “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths” (Proverbs 3:5-6). We must continue being grounded in this faith, standing steadfast in our hope in Christ, because He who has promised is faithful!
Prayer and Confession
I choose faith alone, I believe Him for everything I need.
Further Reading: Hebrews 11, Mark 5:35-43
