Day 133/260: Read Matthew 8

Living the Christian life is not an easy task. Following Jesus does not guarantee wealth or safety. A scribe came to the Master and said he would follow wherever Jesus went, but Jesus warned, “Foxes have holes and birds of the air have nests, but the Son of Man has nowhere to lay His head.” You will face difficult situations in this world if you follow Jesus.

One of the Lord’s disciples said that he would not be free to follow Jesus until after his father had passed away. “Lord, let me first go and bury my father.” Jesus rebuked the man’s procrastination. Following Jesus is an urgent matter and may require us to sacrifice personal matters. “Follow Me, and let the dead bury their own dead.” Again, living the Christian life is not an easy task.

Matthew relates the incident on the tempestuous sea. The disciples were freaking out, but the Savior was asleep. They frantically woke Him, saying, “Lord, save us! We are perishing!”

Sometimes it may feel like we are perishing, crushed under a load of worry and care in this life. Stress pushes us to what we think is our breaking point. But Jesus says, “Why are you fearful, O you of little faith?”

Jesus is able to calm whatever storm you are facing. You will face difficulties every day, but Jesus is right by your side. Focus on Him. Focus on the faith. Be at peace knowing that you have a powerful friend named Jesus.

Memory (Fill in the blanks)

Matthew 10:39. He who ____________ his life will lose it, and he who ____________ his life for My sake will find it.

Pray

Pray for peace in your life’s situations, focusing on Christ.