Brave Enough to Believe: Trade Your Doubts for Brave FaithSampel

Day 3—Awakened to Purpose

Thomas began an up-close and personal observation of the three-year ministry of Jesus. As they began to understand His purpose, they became awakened to their own. Before the apostles impacted the world with the gospel, however, they first spent time with Jesus to understand the power and authority behind His words and actions. Thomas’s relationship with Jesus led to his first temporary mission. These early assignments prepared Thomas for what would later become his life’s purpose.

On one occasion, Thomas and the apostles encountered a fierce storm on the Sea of Galilee. Meanwhile, Jesus slept in the boat. Terrified, they cried out to Jesus and wondered aloud if He cared if they drowned. They witnessed His authority as Jesus calmed both their anxious hearts and the storm with a single command: “Peace be still.” He challenged them to continue to place their faith in Him. We can’t allow the storms of life to disintegrate our faith. Instead, we can choose to surrender to Jesus and trust His authority in our lives.

When we encounter disappointment, we may be tempted to pull away from Jesus when what we need most is time with Him. Jesus is our source of security, peace, and stability in every circumstance. He is with us when we receive the uninvited diagnosis. He is with us when we wonder how we will pay our mortgage. He is with us when we long for the return of a prodigal child. When we come to Him, He doesn’t rebuke us; He rebukes the storm.

Our proximity to Jesus determines our purpose. Before Jesus sends us out, He calls us to Himself. As we choose to remain in close relationship with Jesus, He prepares us and empowers us with authority to fulfill our unique God-given assignments in this generation. Without His authority in our lives, we will become weary trying to operate in human effort. When we feel weak, He is strong. He sustains us through every storm and strengthens us for kingdom purpose.

Question:

In what way do you need to more fully surrender and trust God’s authority in your life?

Personal Prayer:

Jesus, thank You that I can always come to You. Help me to stay close to You so I can see and fulfill Your purposes for my life.