#disciplemaking
#adventcalendarday8
#willyoujoinme

Hi Everyone – guess what, after you read chapter 8, we’re a third of the way through! Isn’t it wonderful that no matter how many times you read these accounts of Jesus’ life, there’s always something new to learn and think about?

vv15, 16 & 21, all seem to be reiterating that when you know who Jesus is, true faith looks like putting into practice what you’ve learnt from him. Normally we’re not called to hide it away but to keep finding ways to live it out. But the parable of the sower seems to indicate that not everybody will, for various reasons.

None the less, those who DO produce a good crop. Stop and think about that for a moment. What you are doing for Jesus, living out your faith as best you can, will produce good fruit – Jesus just said it would! Be encouraged!

Now let’s have a look at the demon-possessed man, Jairus and the sick woman. All three come to Jesus, but one out of fear and the others out of faith. I want to say that fear brings death and faith brings life. (John 10:10) It so striking to hear of someone being afraid that Jesus would torture him! Fear is a liar and comes from the “father of lies” – the Devil (John 8:44). There’s a song around called “Fear is a Liar” by Zach Williams which you may find helpful. [It’s C&W which is not normally my preference but don’t let that put you off 😉 ]

Fear makes people do strange and unhelpful things. If you’re ever afraid to do something for Jesus, consider who the source of that fear is. Jesus only ever brings life but sometimes you have to push through what “fear” is telling you. Fear will tell you:

• you might offend
• you might make a mistake
• you might not be important enough
• people might not like you or ridicule you
• you might get hurt

The demon-possessed man, Jairus and the sick woman, even the disciples in the boat during the storm all prove that trusting in Jesus brings life and healing. It’s important to believe that before moving on to the next stage in discipleship, as we’ll find out in the next chapter.

Are you currently afraid of what’s next? Is the “storm” raging? Where is your faith – in the one who brings life or the one who lies? (Don’t worry, I’m asking these questions of myself too!)

There’s another song playing as I write “No longer slaves” by Bethel Music. One line of the chorus goes, “I’m no longer a slave to fear, I am a child of God” Maybe that’s for us today 🙂