+DEV+ God and the Wind and Waves

Date: July 6, 2010 10:40 PM
Topic: +DEV+ God and the Wind and Waves

God and the Wind and Waves

"'Lord, save us! We're going to drown!' He replied, 'You of little faith, why are you so afraid?' Then he got up and rebuked the winds and the waves..." (Matthew 8:25-26).
Scripture Focus: Mark 4:35-41

This familiar passage refers to the time when the disciples and Jesus were together in a boat traveling across a lake. A sudden storm blew up, and high waves broke into the boat which began to take in water. They were in extreme danger, yet Jesus slept at the back of the boat, undisturbed by the sea's violence. They woke Him shouting, "Don't you care if we drown?" (Mark 4:38). They were shocked (Mark 4:41) when after a word from Jesus, the raging sea instantly obeyed His command.

Although Jesus was physically with the disciples, they still felt themselves in danger. That's how we feel sometimes, as if we have to shout and wake up the sleeping Jesus to do something. "Why are you afraid?" He asks. He is teaching us to trust Him. Even during the fiercest storms when we're knee deep in water, when we fear everything is lost, Jesus is always in command. Our lack of faith is exposed during these times, but He can instantly calm any storm at any moment. Do not be afraid. You will live!

Insight: If a storm is brewing in your life, try to transition from anxious mental repetition into trusting prayer. God will calm the storm inside.