Mark 6 -- Faith Is Tested And Unbelief Is Revealed

Jesus traveled to his hometown, and the people He'd grown up with would not believe and even despised Him, despite His teaching.  Because they wouldn't believe, they couldn't receive the miracles He had available for them.

Jesus sent His apostles out, two by two, and authorized them to deal cast out demons.  "They represented Him in all they did and said.  God's commandments are always His enablements.  It is remarkable that a band of ordinary men could go out in this way to represent Almighty God, and that they could demonstrate their authority by performing miracles," my commentary noted.

After their return, Jesus took them to a secluded place so they could rest.  "Even God's Servant-Son needed time to rest, fellowship with His friends, and to find renewal from the Father."  But the crowds made that impossible, and this led to the feeding of the 5000.

"Jesus looked at the situation, not as a problem, but as an opportunity to trust the Father and glorify His name.  An effective leader is someone who sees potential in problems and is willing to act by faith ... The first step is not to measure our resources, but to determine God's will and trust Him to meet the need."

Jesus them compelled His apostles to leave in a boat.  They were on a spiritual high and this in itself was dangerous.  It is good to be on the mountaintop if you don't get careless and step off a cliff ... Each new experience of testing demands of us more faith and courage.  And they were about to be tested by the storm on the lake and the sight of Jesus walking on the water! ... The waves that frightened them were only stair steps to bring the Lord Jesus to them."  Their faith test didn't turn out so well.  "Even a disciple of Jesus Christ can develop a hard heart if he fails to respond to the spiritual lessons that must be learned in the course of life and ministry," my commentary concluded.

Father, I doubt that I would have done any better, had I been there.  Increase my faith, and help me to know to expect You in times of trials.  Help me to remember what You've taught me to know:  "I trust You, God!"

Your Brother In Christ,
Gary Ford