Passage of the Day:
That day when evening came, he said to his disciples, “Let us go over to the other side.” 36 Leaving the crowd behind, they took him along, just as he was, in the boat. There were also other boats with him. 37 A furious squall came up, and the waves broke over the boat, so that it was nearly swamped. 38 Jesus was in the stern, sleeping on a cushion. The disciples woke him and said to him, “Teacher, don’t you care if we drown?” 39 He got up, rebuked the wind and said to the waves, “Quiet! Be still!” Then the wind died down and it was completely calm. 40 He said to his disciples, “Why are you so afraid? Do you still have no faith?” 41 They were terrified and asked each other, “Who is this? Even the wind and the waves obey him!” – Mark 4:35-41
Reflection:
Since 4 of the first 6 disciple called by Jesus were fisherman, you would think that these seasoned sailors would not panic when a squall suddenly appeared on the water. While all 12 disciples were freaking out, Jesus was sound asleep, likely using this storm to test their degree of fortitude. Although John Mark was not present during this furious squall, this story was passed down to him by Peter as they were ministry partners in the first century. As this storm intensified, Peter thought the disciples were going to drown. After quickly making this squall disappear, Jesus rebuked the disciples for their lack of faith. Perhaps, this moment of fear prompted Peter to write today’s call to action.
Prayerful Action:
In all this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials. 7 These have come so that the proven genuineness of your faith—of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire—may result in praise, glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed., 1 Peter 1:6-7.
Developing the Spiritual Gut to Press On:
Life is full of failure which provides opportunities for spiritual growth. Jesus taught Peter that trials are necessary to test your faith and in today’s passage to see where you need to improve. Another disciple in the boat during this squall provides another perspective in 1 John 4:18. When you place your trust in the perfect love of Jesus, fear vanishes. Therefore, if you want to pursue fortitude this month, put these two pieces of advice into practice.
Song of the Day:
Final Thoughts:
Fall will likely bring new storms on the horizon. May the lyrics of Fisher of Men prepare you as you find yourself surrounded by wind and waves. If your fortitude fails like the disciples, there’s always tomorrow to begin again with a fresh start, Lamentations 3:19-24.
by Jay Mankus
ExpressYourself4Him 