30/10/09         FEAR NOT, ONLY BELIEVE!    

Scripture – Mark 5:36 “As soon as Jesus heard the word that was spoken, He said to the ruler of the synagogue, ‘Do not be afraid; only believe’.”

 Observations – The news had come that Jairus’ daughter had died and that Jesus need not bother coming. Jesus immediately realised what effect these words would have on Jairus’ faith. Faith is the essential ingredient for a miracle and fear is a serious constraint to any miracle. Jesus therefore tackles two issues – fear and faith – dismissing one and building the other.

 Application – We also should be quick to realise when words are spoken that bring fear and erode faith – and be quick to say “fear not” and “only believe”. To Jesus death, sickness, disease and demonic bondage were easily dealt with but for other people these words can bring great fear. Not only should we help others, but speak ‘Fear not’ and ‘only believe’ to ourselves. “As soon as” we hear them its time for action.

 Prayer – Lord this is such a great word. Help me to be quick to deal with words that bring fear. Help me to remember those two phrases “fear not” and “only believe”.