In verses one through 11, we read the backstory of John the Baptist’s arrest, imprisonment, and death. Basically, a man married his brother’s ex-wife, and John spoke out against it publicly. He told the man that his marriage to the woman was unlawful; this was because the man and the woman had divorced their spouses to marry each other. The woman was upset with John for speaking out against her new marriage. The man was upset as well and wanted to kill John, but He was afraid that the people would riot due to John being considered a prophet. Eventually, the woman, via her daughter, had John beheaded. Although you may not be imprisoned or beheaded, you will suffer consequences for standing up and speaking out against unlawful (unGodly) things/people. Take the stand and speak out anyways! When you are led by God in these moments, remember that Heaven is backing you up!
I know you’ve heard the miracle of the 2 fish and 5 loaves; this is referenced in verses 15 through 21. We read that Jesus took those 2 fish and 5 loaves, looked up to heaven, and blessed it prior to feeding 5,000 men in addition to all the women and children there. We read that there was an abundance of food as everyone ate as much as they desired, and there were 12 baskets of leftovers when everyone was finished. Friend, be encouraged and full of faith!! God is able to take that little that you have and multiply it into much!!
John’s disciples had told Jesus about John’s death earlier in the chapter, but He was occupied. After He had finished feeding the crowd, Jesus sent them and the disciples away so He could go and pray alone. Even Jesus took moments to address hurt and grief. So why do you feel as if you can tuck your emotions under the rug and not deal with them? Why are you afraid to face the things that you’ve buried with the lie of “I don’t care” while knowing you’re feeling a certain way? The best place to release that pain, hurt, disappointment, and sorrow is at His feet in prayer!
Another miracle is referenced in this chapter as well in verses 22 through 33. Jesus was walking on the water to catch up with the disciples after He finished praying. A great wind came upon the waters and the waves were great; the disciples were having a hard time on that boat. I can just imagine Jesus casually walking towards them, and Peter working up enough courage to request to do the same. Jesus told him to come, and just like that, Peter was walking on the water too. But Peter became afraid due to the wind and waves so he began to sink. Jesus saved him from sinking and rebuked Him by saying, “You have so little faith. Why did you doubt me?” In the midst of the storms, Jesus calls for us to exercise our faith and step out onto the water. Most of the time, we find ourselves remaining in the boat due to fear, lack of faith, and doubt. Most of time, we held ourselves back from experiencing the fullness of God’s power. He desires us to not doubt what He is able to do, but more greatly, He desires us to not doubt what we are able to do through Him. FRIEND, STEP OUT AND WALK ON THAT WATER!
Real Talk with Keve 