When I read about the humaness of the disciples, I am encouraged.
They were confused by the words of Jesus:
"And they kept that saying with themselves, questioning one with another what the rising from the dead should mean." Mark 9:10
They were inconsistent in their serving:
"And when he was come into the house, his disciples asked him privately, Why could not we cast him out?" Mark 9:28
They were afraid to ask Him questions:
"But they understood not that saying, and were afraid to ask him." Mark 9:32
They were embarrassed by their desire for greatness:
"And he came to Capernaum: and being in the house he asked them, What was it that ye disputed among yourselves by the way?
But they held their peace: for by the way they had disputed among themselves, who should be the greatest." Mark 9:34
If Jesus used this group of men – with all their frailties and failures – to begin his earthly ministry, and later allowed them to continue that work as missionaries and preachers, I have no doubt that He can use us too.
His ministry through us is in direct proportion to our submission to Him.
As we surrender our confusion, our weakness, our fear and our pride, He will use us for His glory.
What weakness is stopping you from serving Him?
Surrender it…and enter in to the joy of serving Jesus!
Obtaining Mercy 