Today's Good News

August 27: Do Not Be Afraid, Only Believe

Scripture:
“As soon as Jesus heard the word that was spoken, He said to the ruler of the synagogue, ‘Do not be afraid; only believe.'”
— Mark 5:36 (NKJV)

Points:

  1. Fear often enters when we hear bad news or feel powerless.
  2. Jesus responds with clarity — replace fear with belief.
  3. Belief is not denial of reality but trust in Jesus’ authority.
  4. The call to “only believe” invites us to narrow our focus.
  5. Jesus speaks this directly to hurting hearts — with compassion and strength.

Poem: Only Believe

The words I heard were full of weight.
They spoke of loss, of ends, of pain.
But then your voice cut through the fog.
“Do not be afraid,” you gently said.
“Only believe — and follow me.”

You did not mock my trembling breath.
You stood beside my stunned, still heart.
You called me not to figure out,
But simply walk with eyes on you—
To trust your steps, not what I see.

You asked for faith where fear had won.
You asked for hope when grief was near.
And yet you gave what you required—
The faith to take another step.
The grace to breathe in what you said.

I do not always understand.
The future often fades from view.
But you are not a ghost or dream.
You speak with power and with love.
You are the voice that drives out fear.

Today I choose to believe you.
Not the fear, not just what I hear.
Your words bring peace to anxious thoughts.
Your truth stands firm when shadows fall.
I will not fear — I will believe.

Prayer:
Jesus, when fear speaks loud, help me hear You more clearly. Teach me to believe You even in the dark moments. I trust You with what I cannot fix. Amen.


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Clay Corvin

Clay Corvin is currently a Bible Teacher and occasional preacher at Bethel Community Baptist Church in New Orleans. He is the retired VP Business and Professor of Admin at New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary after completing 38 years as their Business Administrator. He was the pastor at the Brantley Baptist Center for twenty-five years. He is married to Carol Corvin and the father of three children and has three grandchildren. He ministers today as Co-pastor of the Bethel Community Baptist Church and seeks to share the Gospel with everyone. Jesus is Lord!