July 7

Luke 8:22-25 (Click to see scripture)

Bible in One Year Passages:

Journal Entry

Scripture

He said to them, "Where is your faith?" And they were afraid

Observation

One of the first things I noticed after reading the text a number of times was that the disciples trusted Jesus. He said, "Let us go across to the other side of the lake." So they set out. It seems they trusted this simple idea to cross the lake enough to cross it without questioning. Jesus falls asleep and then a storm comes that puts them in danger. When Jesus is awoken by the fearful disciples he takes care of what is causing them fear by rebuking the wind and raging waves. This speaks of great care for the disciples. His next question is, "Where is your faith?" Then, the disciples were afraid and commenting that he commanded the winds and water and they obey him. That causes me to think that Jesus commanded the disciples, yet they are struggling to obey. Jesus addresses this struggle by asking them where their faith is.

Application

Where do I place my trust?

Do I put my trust in Jesus and his way of life? Or, do I "divide" my trust and therefore, ultimately not trust Jesus and his work in my life and our lives?
My application is to reflect on a couple of questions. Do I truly trust in God's goodness and love? I ask myself this question because as I am connected to a powerful person who loves me enables me to do all that he has commanded me. The second question I'll reflect on is Where do I struggle to live out his commands? The answer will reveal where I put my faith in someone/something other than Jesus.

A concrete current example for me is whether I trust Jesus and his way of life of blessing those who really frustrate me. (Note: scripture says bless those who curse you - I personalized it). Jesus, the only way I can truly want someone to have a truly good life is to trust in your goodness and that your way of life is the way to the ultimate good life.

Prayer

Jesus, help me to experience your love and goodness so that I experience your life within me to carry out all that you have commanded me to do. It seems to me that as more of your love and grace is flowing in my life the more I will become the kind of person who naturally does all the things that you have commanded. Help me increase my responsiveness to surrendering to your will for my life. Help me to become more aware and sensitive to your Spirit's promptings. And, as my trust in you increases give me the courage to live your way of life, ability to love and trust in you Lord. May your love increase in me, my family and my community.

--John Loppnow