What are you afraid of?

So the other disciples told him, ³We have seen the Lord!² But he said to them, ³Unless I see the nail marks in his hands and put my finger where the nails were, and put my hand into his side, I will not believe it.² A week later his disciples were in the house again, and Thomas was with them. Though the doors were locked, Jesus came and stood among them and said, ³Peace be with you!² Then he said to Thomas, ³Put your finger here; see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it into my side. Stop doubting and believe.² (John 20:25-27, NIV)

Before we draw Easter to a close and turn our eyes to Pentecost, Iıd like to take you back to the locked room on Easter Sunday. While Thomas was away, Jesus had appeared alive to His disciples, and in their joy, they told Thomas what theyıd seen, but Thomas didnıt believe. Only eight days later, when Jesus appeared to him, and he saw the holes in Jesusı hands, feet, and side, did he believe it to be true.

So often, we find ourselves in Thoması shoes. Our faith is so paltry. ³Money is just too tight. Weıre not going to get out of this.² Not until things get better, when we see for ourselves, do we believe that God is able to handle our financial struggles, that the same Jesus who drew money out of the mouths of fish is able to handle our financial burdens. ³My health is failing‹thereıs no hope.² Not until we feel for ourselves our bodies healing do we believe that the same Jesus Who raised Lazarus from the dead can bring healing. ³Iıve failed at so much. Iım worthless.² How much more than the Son of God dying for you can show your value to Him?

How do we now that God can handle our troubles? He handled our sin‹saved us from hell. And for our sake, He gave us the same body and blood given and shed for our forgiveness through the Lordıs Supper. See it; touch it. Stop doubting and believe.

What uncertainties are facing your life? Is money tight? Is your health or that of a loved one not well? Is your employment or some personal goal in doubt? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. (Deuteronomy 31:6, NIV)