March 17 Luke 8:50
“But Jesus on hearing this answered him, ‘Do not fear; only believe, and she will be well.’”
This verse is part of the account of Jairus, a synagogue ruler who pleaded with Jesus to heal his dying daughter. Before they could reach her, messengers arrived, saying she had died. Jesus, however, encouraged Jairus with these words, urging him to replace fear with faith.
Key Themes:
1. Faith Over Fear
Jesus instructs Jairus not to be afraid but to trust in Him. This is a common theme in Scripture, where faith is shown to overcome even the most dire circumstances (cf. Mark 5:36, Matthew 17:20).
2. Jesus’ Power Over Death
While others saw death as final, Jesus saw it as temporary. He later raises Jairus’ daughter, demonstrating His authority over life and death (Luke 8:54-55).
3. Trust in God’s Timing
Jairus had to endure delay (as Jesus healed the woman with the issue of blood), but this delay was part of God’s greater purpose. Even when all seemed lost, Jesus proved that faith in Him is never in vain.
Application:
• When facing hopeless situations, remember Jesus’ words: “Do not fear; only believe.”
• Faith does not deny reality but trusts in Christ’s power beyond what is seen.
• Delays in answered prayers do not mean denial—God’s timing is perfect.
This verse reminds us that faith in Jesus brings hope, even in life’s darkest moments.
One of the most difficult times in my life came the day after we survived with no house damage from hurricane Floyd. The Bidhops office called and told me to come to see him. Without much kindness I was told to resign or be fired! Moreover he said he would send me to another bishop who specialized in counseling clergy with the sim of finding a different career path!
However, long story short the result was positive. After a deep dive into the situation this expert gave me a clean bill of health. His judgement was that I was an “After Pastor.” It is a term for clergy who follow a person who had been removed for sexual misconduct. The further judgement in my case was that the Bishop and diocese had not done a proper process of healing the congregation.
In the aftermath the Bishop’s assistant helped me with good references and I had three churches in Louisiana interested in me. It turned out to be another case for me to hang on to my favorite verse. “All things work together for good for those who trust the Lord.” Romans 8:28.
How has faith brought you through a difficult time!?
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