What actions can we take to strengthen our faith, avoiding the Pharisees' example? Setting the Scene “ ‘And He left them, got back into the boat, and crossed to the other side.’ ” (Mark 8:13) Moments earlier, the Pharisees had demanded a fresh sign (Mark 8:11–12). Jesus’ quiet departure exposes their hardened unbelief. We learn that faith thrives when it trusts God’s revealed word rather than insisting on ever-new proofs. Where the Pharisees Went Wrong • Demanding evidence after abundant revelation (see Mark 8:1–9). • Testing God instead of trusting Him (Deuteronomy 6:16; Matthew 4:7). • Allowing pride to eclipse humility (Luke 18:11–12). • Influencing others with skepticism—“the leaven” Jesus later warns about (Mark 8:15). Actions That Strengthen Faith Today 1. Cherish Christ’s Presence Instead of Chasing Signs • John 20:29—“Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.” • Make a daily habit of acknowledging the Lord’s nearness (Psalm 16:8). 2. Immerse Ourselves in Scripture • Romans 10:17—“So faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of Christ.” • Read, memorize, and meditate on passages; let God’s voice shape thinking. 3. Remember God’s Past Works • Psalm 77:11—“I will remember the deeds of the LORD...” • Keep a journal of answered prayers and providential moments. 4. Obey What We Already Know • James 1:22—“Be doers of the word, and not hearers only.” • Small, consistent obedience builds a track record that amplifies trust. 5. Cultivate Humility and Repent Quickly • Isaiah 66:2—“This is the one I will esteem: he who is humble and contrite in spirit…” • Confession breaks the pride that stifles faith. 6. Guard the Heart from Cynicism • Proverbs 4:23—“Guard your heart with all diligence...” • Limit influences that mock or belittle God’s promises. 7. Engage in Worship and Fellowship • Hebrews 10:24–25—stir one another to love and good works. • Singing truth together re-calibrates perspective (Colossians 3:16). Learning from Positive Examples • Abraham “did not waver through unbelief” (Romans 4:20–21). • Mary responded, “May it happen to me as you have said” (Luke 1:38). • The centurion believed Jesus’ word alone (Matthew 8:8–10). Promises to Hold When Doubt Knocks • Hebrews 13:5—“I will never leave you nor forsake you.” • Isaiah 26:3—“You will keep in perfect peace the steadfast mind, because he trusts in You.” • 2 Corinthians 5:7—“For we walk by faith, not by sight.” Putting It All Together Jesus moved on when the Pharisees refused to believe. We move forward by treasuring His word, remembering His works, and practicing humble obedience. As we do, faith grows strong, resilient, and ready for the next step He asks us to take. |
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