In The Chosen¹ there is a special scene about Matthew. He is a tax collector who takes money from the Jews. He follows Rome and is hated by his own people. Yet Jesus calls Matthew to follow Him, a choice which angers Simon.
 
An interesting word appears in Matthew and once in Luke…oligopistos, which means “little faith”. This is what Jesus often called His disciples, though not in the stern, demeaning way often depicted. This was a term of endearment.
 
You may not have read it that way. Translators at times render words as if they were the one speaking. But Jesus was different. He was gentle with His disciples. He knew their faith needed to grow, and they needed to know that, too.
 
The same is true for us. Take a look around. How are you handling everything? Ever wondered, “Where is God?” Ever been afraid or even doubted? Oh, little faith, you’re ok. Your faith just needs to grow. Remember Jesus’ promises…
 
Why do you fear? Why do you doubt? Why haven’t you finally figured it out?
Though others just promise and many have lied, I’ll never, not ever, leave your side.
 
      Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid. (John 14:27)
 
The world is such a dangerous place. There’s so much evil you’ll have to face.
But when it rises to throw that first stone, know that you’ll never, not ever, be alone.
 
      I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you. (John 14:18)
 
Enemies, once neighbors, square off to fight, Each claiming that only their cause is right.
And though such hatred may cause you to flee, they will never, not ever, take you from me.
 
      My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish. No one can snatch them out of my hand.(John10:27-28)
 
For I’m still in control. My timing is sure. My kingdom stands strong and my love remains pure.
Let me fill you with kindness and gentleness true so others will always, yes always, see me in you.
 
      All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. (Matthew 28:18)I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you. (John 13:15)
 
There’s no need to fear. No need to doubt. Even the darkness has figured this out.
Though trouble will come and the world fall in rage, I’m with you to even, yes even, the end of the age.
 
      I am with you always, to the very end of the age. (Matthew 28:20b)

 Ciloa Forever!

Chuck

Chuck Graham is Founder and Executive Director of Ciloa, an international ministry devoted to encouraging others and teaching them how to encourage one another. Also an author and speaker, Chuck and his wife, Beverly, live in Lawrenceville, Georgia, USA. Learn more about Chuck and Ciloa at www.Ciloa.org.

Footnotes: The poem is You of Little Faith by Chuck Graham. The inserted Scriptures are Jesus’ promises…to you.
 
Pictures: Banner: (1) You of Little Faith, image created by the Coptic Orthodox Church. (2) Why Do You Doubt, image created by First Evangelical Lutheran Church and School, firstglencoe.org.