What Jesus Did! 'Anxious Honesty' — Mark 4:37-38

Friday, March 15, 2024

But soon a fierce storm came up [as Jesus and some disciples were crossing the Sea of Galilee]. High waves were breaking into the boat, and it began to fill with water.

Jesus was sleeping at the back of the boat with his head on a cushion. The disciples woke him up, shouting, "Teacher, don't you care that we're going to drown?"

— Mark 4:37-38 NLT

Key Thought

I am so thankful for the honest portrayal of Jesus' disciples. I can see myself in them and know that God uses people like me. Maybe you're not like most of us who sometimes panic when we feel overwhelmed. We can take heart that the early followers of Jesus had bouts with panic and fear just like we do. In their distress, they didn't pretend to have everything under control. They didn't puff out their chests with false bravado and act like they could handle every situation. Even though their honesty led Jesus to rebuke them in subsequent verses, their honesty also led to a miracle! Why? Because they were willing to go honestly to their Savior with their fears. They had much to learn ... and he would teach them. They also had much to lose ... and he would protect them. What are you holding back in your conversation with the Savior? What has you panicked, afraid, or anxious that you have not fully shared with the Lord? Storms come and go, but only the Lord stands the test of time. Be real about your fears and anxieties, and let him care for you. Yes, he will challenge you to greater faith. But that's the point, isn't it? In our weakness, he calls us to himself and offers us grace.

Today's Prayer

Father, I confess to you now the burdens of my heart, knowing that you will hear them and do what is best for me. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Related Scripture Readings

  • Philippians 4:6-7
  • 1 Peter 5:7
  • 2 Corinthians 12:8-10

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Illustration

Illustration of Mark 4:37-38 NLT — "Teacher, don't you care that we're going to drown?"

About This Devotional

What Jesus Did! is a series of one-year devotional guides through each gospel, using one short scripture passage each day and following the Gospel in sequential order. Each devotional consists of a scripture passage and a reflection and a prayer which open up the day's scripture and show how it challenges you to live for Jesus.

What Jesus Did! is written by Phil Ware and is available in book form.

Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007, 2013, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.

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