Do you need a word from God?  He loves to speak to us at just the right time to encourage us.  Sometimes people say just the wrong thing.  Ever had that happen to you?  Sometimes people will say something that will kick the air out of you.  (Lord let that never be me!)  Sometimes circumstances will appear dismal and want to do the same thing.

There is a great illustration of this in Mark 5.  Jairus, a leader in the synagogue has his twelve year old daughter on the edge of death.  He managed to get to Jesus and gain His agreement to come and lay hands on her.  Jesus was willing.  Jesus is always willing.  On the way His journey was interrupted by a woman, having bled for twelve years, who touched Jesus garment and was healed.  Jesus said to her “Daughter, your faith has made you well.”

During this delay some “friends” of Jairus came to him and said he should not bother Jesus because His daughter had died.  I like the way the NIV says renders verse 36:

“Ignoring what they said, Jesus told the synagogue ruler, “Don’t be afraid; just believe.” Mark 5:36, NIV

Jesus overheard the conversation and immediately interrupted, “Do not be afraid, only believe.” (NKJV)  Jesus ignored what they said.  He knew this was a matter of faith for Jairus.  He wanted Jairus not to be discouraged and give up hope.  These words of Jesus are powerful and a needed antidote to the negativity of so many.  Believe, believe, believe, believe, believe.  Do not give up hope.  Only believe.

You know the rest of the story.  When he got to the house there was a ruckus with loads of crying and screaming over the daughters death.  Jesus put everyone out except Mom, Dad, Peter, James and John.  He spoke to the girl and she was raised up.  Out of death Jesus brought life.  Before the natural came the spiritual – out of the death of fear and unbelief He spoke words of life and encouragement.

Are God’s promises seemingly delayed in your life?  Are you fearful?  Are circumstances saying to you “death.”  Perhaps the Lord would say to you today:  “Do not be afraid, only believe.”