DEVOTIONAL

And He said to them, “Why are you troubled, and why do doubts arise in your hearts?

Luke 24:38 NASBS

Doubt and fear is something that every child of God must contend with on the pilgrimage from this life to that which is to come. The truth is, we are but flesh, made of clay, and though fashioned in the hands of the Potter we must face the perils of the unknown, as it is written, “ Through many tribulations we must enter the kingdom of God.” For just as the seeds of a flower fall to the ground and are carried away by the wind, it brings the possibility of beauty where ever it may fall, so to, the trials of life form every Christian into the image of the living God. Whatever troubles, fears, or distresses that arise within our hearts, we are to be assured The Lord is purposing them for the greater good of the church, the bride of Christ, who will one day be perfected in eternity.

May the grace of God allow us to sympathize with the Christians in the first century who walked with Jesus, who talked with Him, and who loved Him with all of their heart’s. For on the darkest day of their lives they heard the angry crowd shouting, “Crucify Him! Crucify Him!” Some looked on with their eyes seeing the bloody spectacle, while others heard the agonizing screeches of His voice rising above the chants of the wicked mob. As time went by His voice became silenced by the blood that filled His lungs and then He breathed His last. Then darkness fell upon all the land as God The Father veiled the horrifying scene from the mockers. Those who were followers of Jesus had found themselves in a crisis unlike anytime they had ever been in before. They were at a loss for words as fear raged through their mind’s not knowing what to do or where to go. They found themselves gathered in a small home in Galilee with the doors locked fearing for their lives. Then after three days the Lord appeared to them in all of His glory showing them the wounds on His body. And He said to them, “Why are you troubled, and why do doubts arise in your hearts? See My hands and My feet, that it is I Myself; touch Me and see.”

The terror that once filled their stricken hearts was now filled with joy, for they had seen their Master Who overcame the grave just as He said He would. Brothers and sisters in Christ, whatever doubts or fears that you were facing, face it with hope. Never forget that Jesus Christ was touched with the feelings of your infirmities and sympathizes with you in what is distressing you. Oh beloved of God, may the Holy Spirit open up the ears of your heart to hear the words of Jesus your Savior saying to you, “Why are you troubled, and why do doubts arise in your hearts? See My hands and My feet, that it is I Myself; touch Me and see.” For just as Jesus overcome the grave defeating hell and death, you will too. Remember the struggles of this life are just for a short season and then you will see the one Who died for your sins. You will rest in His beloved arms and all of your tears will be washed away. May the Lord God give you grace to endure the suffering that you are facing and in light eternity that is to come.