This chapter contains accounts of Jesus feeding 5000+, His walking on the water, and His thoughts on “the Bread of Life” and eternal life.
“When many of his disciples heard [Jesus describing Himself as the Bread of Life], they said, ‘This is a hard saying; who can listen to it?’ But Jesus, knowing in himself that his disciples were grumbling about this, said to them, ‘Do you take offense at this?… It is the Spirit who gives life; the flesh is no help at all. The words that I have spoken to you are spirit and life. But there are some of you who do not believe.’… After this many of his disciples turned back and no longer walked with him.” (v60-61, 63-64, 66 abr)
It’s extremely unfortunate that many who once called themselves followers of Jesus would turn away from Him when they encounter a truth or an experience they are unwilling to work through. One characteristic of a true Christ follower is perseverance, a willingness to wrestle with great difficulties until we’re face-to-face with Jesus (in contrast to turning our face away from Jesus; there is no middle ground here).
I challenge us to remain faithful to Jesus no matter the difficulty or the cost. I know this sounds impossible (personal experiences, our level of understanding, and / or the world’s experiences influence this perspective). Yet, faithfulness is critical in order to be ministers unto this world, and receive a ‘well done’ commendation from Jesus.
History, the Bible, and my own personal experience prove to me that God will see us through any conceivable circumstance or trial of faith, we just need to trust Him. Do you believe He will see you through your struggles? Will you commit to remaining faithful, no matter how rough the water gets?
Father God, our Glorious Lord and Everlasting King, may we worship and obey You with every breath and action. Holy Spirit please loan us Your strength and endurance, so we can persevere the trials of life. Please empower us to stand strong on Christ our Rock, and hide in the shelter of God our Fortress. Father thank you for Your steadfast love, and Your permanent presence, that enable us to face the worst this world can bring. May we stand rooted in You, and serve You consistently, until You call us home. Amen.
~ Conqueror in Training