THE UPPER ROOM DEVOTIONAL 1ST OCTOBER 2024, TUESDAY MESSAGE
TOPIC: If You Have Faith
Today’s Reading
Matthew 8:23-27
Thought for the Day
With faith in Christ, I can face anything.
Jesus said, “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” – John 16:33 (NIV)
TODAY’S MESSAGE
My wife’s grandmother Irene was fond of saying, “If you have your health, you have everything.” Now that I am experiencing various health challenges, I have a better understanding of what she meant. But while being healthy is important, I prefer to say, “If you have your faith, you can face anything.”
Today’s reading from Matthew describes the disciples’ fear during an unexpected storm. They awakened Jesus, who calmed the storm and then rebuked the disciples: “You of little faith, why are you so afraid?” I think Jesus was pointing out that as long as he was with them, they could face anything.
We see evidence of this later as these same disciples went through a dramatic transformation. Infused with the Holy Spirit after being instructed by Jesus, they spread the gospel message near and far, fulfilling the Great Commission (see Matt. 28:16-20). They repeatedly faced persecution and danger. Previously fearful and confused, the disciples now displayed tremendous courage, in some cases even dying for the sake of the gospel message.
Their faith in Jesus Christ caused this change.
We will face challenges in our lives, but Jesus is always with us, giving us peace and courage in times of trouble.
Today’s Prayer
Heavenly Father, strengthen our faith and give us “confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see” (Heb. 11:1). Amen.
Prayer Focus
Those facing health challenges
The Upper Room Devotional 1st October 2024, is a daily devotional magazine published in more than 30 languages and 100 countries around the world. The daily meditations are written by readers of the magazine and others interested in sharing their faith experiences through writing—both laity and clergy, published authors and new writers. Read More