How can fear affect our decision-making, as seen in Mark 9:6? Setting the Scene Mark 9:2-8 describes the Transfiguration. Jesus takes Peter, James, and John up a high mountain. He is transfigured; His clothes become dazzling white, and Moses and Elijah appear. A cloud overshadows them, and the Father speaks: “This is My beloved Son; listen to Him!” Mark 9:6: “For they were all so terrified that Peter did not know what to say.” Fear’s Immediate Impact • Overwhelming awe and terror flood the disciples when confronted with God’s glory. • Peter blurts out, “Rabbi, it is good for us to be here. Let us put up three shelters…” (v. 5). • His proposal is misguided—trying to enshrine the moment rather than embracing the Father’s command to listen to Jesus. • Fear clouds clarity; instead of silent worship, Peter speaks impulsively. Cascading Effects on Decision-Making • Distorted priorities – Fear shifts focus from God’s agenda to self-preservation or comfort (Proverbs 29:25). • Hasty speech – Words pour out before thought can catch up (Ecclesiastes 5:2). • Misaligned actions – Building booths sounded spiritual but sidestepped God’s immediate revelation. • Paralyzing uncertainty – Terror can make us feel we “do not know what to say,” leading either to rash action or inaction. Lessons for Us Today • Remember who God is – His glory commands reverent trust, not panicked reaction (Psalm 46:10). • Filter every impulse through Christ’s command – “Listen to Him” remains the Father’s directive. The Word steadies fearful hearts (John 14:27). • Receive God’s power for sound decisions – “God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and self-discipline” (2 Timothy 1:7). • Replace fear with faith – “When I am afraid, I will trust in You” (Psalm 56:3). • Seek wisdom, not knee-jerk fixes – “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God” (James 1:5). • Rest in perfect love – “Perfect love drives out fear” (1 John 4:18). • Act in courage grounded in promise – “Do not fear, for I am with you” (Isaiah 41:10). Courage through Christ • Fix eyes on Jesus, greater than Moses and Elijah, the ultimate revelation of God. • Yield to the Spirit’s calm guidance instead of letting fear dictate decisions. • Move forward in trust, knowing His presence transforms terror into wise, obedient action. |
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