Verses 1-12
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Verse 4. Speaking against sin will create enemies, but it's still necessary. Don't hesitate to expose sinful behaviors if necessary.
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Verse 9. Herod's rash promise led to the death of John.
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Be careful what you promise! (Proverbs 6:2).
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Verses 13-21
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Verses 13-14. Understand that compassion will bring many great works into your life. If you feel compassion for a person, take it as a sign that you must act!
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Verses 17-20. Even though they had little food on hand, Jesus could multiply it.
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Don't disqualify yourself from helping because you think you have little to contribute. Be faithful to use what you have, and God will make it effective.
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Verses 22-23
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There were times when Jesus knew that He needed to go away, to pray, and He was willing to send crowds away in order to get this time.
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Do set aside time for yourself to pray and study the Word in solitude. Don't let caring for others rob you of time for prayer alone. It is needed to equip you for serving others.
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Verses 24-33
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By faith in Jesus word, Peter was able to do what Jesus did. Understand that we can also do the works that Jesus did (John 14:12). How? By faith.
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Peter began in faith, and walked on water! But he began to sink when he averted his focus to the troubled sea rather that keeping his focus on Jesus.
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You can start in faith but be weakened, and become afraid, if you start focusing on the problems around you.
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Weak faith is faith that wanes. You will help your faith if you keep focused on the Word and prayer!
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Verses 34-36
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People believed that they would receive healing if they only touched His clothing, and so it happened. When people believe and expect, miraculous things happen!
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Don't place limitations in your mind about what God will do. Remember that all things are possible!
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