The very first chapter of Mark records Jesus doing supernatural works. Throughout the book Mark establishes the fact that Jesus is God the Son, confirming it with miraculous powers. Mark also points out the disciples’ lack of understanding of who Jesus was/is and the trust He is worthy of.
In Mark 8:1-21 Jesus performs the miracle of feeding 4,000 people with seven loaves and a few fish. Then He and His disciples departed by boat. However, the disciples neglected to bring some of the remaining food with them, and they become concerned about their physical well-being. Jesus reminds them that He has just taken care of thousands of people. He then proceeds to make application for the twelve by asking, “Do you still not understand?” (Mark 8:21). Jesus wants to know what it will take to convince them that He is the Son of God and the eternal God the Son. When will they accept Him for who He really is!? When will they have faith!?
As I read this chapter it amazed me how a human being could be exposed to Jesus Christ, have more than enough evidence to come to faith, and still not trust Him completely in all physical and spiritual areas of life. As the day went on I found myself slipping into the same mindset as the apostles. I was anxious about this and fretted over that. Then I realized how easy it is to fall into that “lack of faith” disposition.
All of us need to increase in our faith. Rather, all of us need to exercise the faith we have. We need to stop doubting and start believing. We need to let God do some great things in our lives rather than limiting Him by lack of faith. We need to pray in faith, believing God can do all things. We need to know that we can do all things through Christ who strengthens us (Philippians 4:13). It is high time to put our faith where our mouth is and exercise our faith in every area of our lives with every fiber of our being.
Mike