The NIV 365 Day Devotional
Who is This?
If you’ve ever watched an online weather channel, you’ve probably seen some pretty massive storms. The worst of them can make you feel grateful that you’re not in the middle of one of those tempests—unless the storm you see online is the same one raging outside your window!
When an unexpected wild storm whipped across the Sea of Galilee, the disciples seemed certain they’d sink to the bottom of the lake. But then Jesus rose from his place in the boat and, with a word, brought stillness and calm. The men who had feared drowning suddenly experienced a different kind of fear. They had to face the question, “Who is this?” (Mark 4:41).
Jesus often placed people in a position of having to decide what they believed about him. After asking his disciples what other people said about him, Jesus posed the direct question, “Who do you say I am?” (Matthew 16:15). When John the Baptist sent two of his followers to inquire about Jesus’ identity, Jesus sent the messengers back with the directive: “Report to John what you have seen and heard” (Luke 7:22). When Jesus forgave a man’s sins, shocked religious leaders exclaimed, “Who can forgive sins but God alone?” (Mark 2:7). Of course, they understood precisely the ramifications of the answer. Now they had to decide about Jesus.
So must we. In fact, life hinges on our decision about Jesus. We’ll still face wild storms and overwhelming questions, but when we link our lives together with his we find a place of safety within which we can withstand the storms.
When we decide to follow Jesus, we take our stand on much more than an issue of philosophy or history. We’re not deciding which side to take in some endlessly boring and meaningless religious debate. Rather, in that moment, we set the overall course of our lives, as well as determine how we are to live each day.
Deciding for Jesus provides meaning that replaces our emptiness. The choice enables us to serve others selflessly instead of continuously seeking self-gratification. It allows us to live joyfully instead of avoiding times of trial and despair. And ultimately, a decision for Jesus gives us life instead of death.
Taken from the NIV Men’s Devotional Bible.