August 5, 2026

Of Faith and Fear

Doug Paysour | Read Psalm 105:1-6, 16-22, 45

(Image by: Pixabay)

Lectionary Week

August 3–9, 2026

Scripture Overview

The strange dynamics in the history of Abraham’s family continue in Genesis. We meet Joseph who is sold into slavery by his jealous brothers. God will ultimately use this for good, as we read in Psalm 105, but in Joseph’s time, there clearly is significant dysfunction. In the Gospel reading, Peter learns a valuable lesson about trust. He initially shows great faith, but he falters when he allows himself to be distracted by the waves. Paul emphasizes in Romans that every person is welcome to call on the name of the Lord and be saved, but it falls to us to offer them the good news. How can they believe if they never hear?

Questions and Suggestions for Reflection

Read Genesis 37:1-4, 12-28. In the face of cruelty, how do you continue to believe in God’s dream of unity for us all?
Read Psalm 105:1-6, 16-22, 45b. How has God used a difficult situation in your life to bring a surprisingly positive outcome? How has that enhanced your faith?
Read Romans 10:5-15. How does your faith compel you to proclaim God’s love for all—no exceptions? What does this look like for you?
Read Matthew 14:22-33. When have you struggled to trust Jesus through life’s trials? How has Jesus revealed his presence and companionship anyway?

Respond by posting a prayer.

My family is surprised that I routinely watch a comedian who, although having been raised as one, is not only admittedly not Christian, but avowedly anti-Christian. He caught my ear one time when he talked about one of his reasons for not being a Christian. He said a God who...

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God of all creation, we praise you for all the ways that you work in our lives, day by day. Open our eyes to your loving grace. Amen.

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