file: /pub/resources/text/Our.Daily.Bread: db940702.txt
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OUR DAILY BREAD      Saturday, July 2, 1994
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READ:  Mark 5:36

                     "ONLY BELIEVE"

              Do not be afraid; only believe.

                       - Mark 5:36

One day when Jesus was surrounded by a multitude, a dis-
tressed ruler of the synagogue named Jairus pushed his way
through the crowd and fell at His feet.  With great urgency
he pleaded with the Lord to come to his house.  His little
daughter was dying, annd he knew that the Lord could heal
her.

Jesus, who was full of compassion, immediately went with
him.  But on the way, a woman with a chronic disease "came
behind Him in the crowd and touched His garment"  (Mark
5:27).   Recognizing her touch of faith, He stopped to heal
her.  Just then Jairus received the sad news that his
daughter was dead.  Jesus, sensing his deep disappointment,
said to him, "Do not be afraid, only believe" (v. 36).

Sometimes in our own trials of faith, we experience disap-
pointment and despair.  It appears useless to continue to
believe.  We may feel the need to take things into our own
hands.  We wonder, What's the use of believing any longer?
This is the point at which we are often defeated;  yet this
is also the time when victory is at the threshold.

Are you discouraged today and ready to give up?  Jesus would
say  to you,  "Don't despair.  I won't fail you.  Only be-
lieve!"  Your faith will be rewarded.


Author:  Henry G. Bosch


        When nothing on which we can lean remains,
        When strongholds crumble to dust,
        When nothing is sure but that God still reigns,
        Then that's the time we should trust!   -Anon.


THOUGHT FOR THE  DAY:
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Faith expects from God
   what is beyond all expectation.

THE BIBLE IN ONE YEAR:  Hosea 1-4

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