But Jesus, overhearing what was being spoken, said to the synagogue official, “Do not be afraid any longer, only believe.”
Mark 5:36 NASB
So simple, yet so difficult.
We know this story. Jairus approached Jesus in the hopes of healing his daughter. Before they reached Jairus’ home, news came that the child had died. Jesus’ instruction is to replace what has been (fear) for what is to be (faith). Jesus acknowledged Jairus’ fear, and told him to release that fear. More than that, Jesus gave him a reason to hope and to believe. He drew from Jairus’ desire to have his daughter healed, knowing that Jairus approached him in faith. When the situation became dire, Jesus sensed Jairus’ faith waning. Fear began to take hold. But Jesus reminded Jairus of the reason he came – because he believed in Jesus. Jesus drew out that faith and expanded it to overcome fear.
Jesus gives faith to believe beyond what we can see. Instead of focusing on my fear, I need to focus on my faith in the one who overcomes.
God whispers to my heart – My child, do not fear. ONLY BELIEVE.
