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Jesus meets us in the stroms of life
by Lenora McWhorter Matthew 14:22-26 "Be of good cheer. It is I, do not be afraid." Matthew 14:27b Jesus shows up in the storms and calms our fears with His presence because it is in the storms of life that test our faith like nothing else. The disciples found themselves in a sudden storm on the sea. Jesus sent the disciples away while He went into the hills to pray. Prayer was a vital part of Christ 's ministry. Following a busy day He sought to be alone with His Father. The disciples followed Jesus' instructions, got in the boat and started to the other side. The storm arose and the contrary winds caused terror in the midst of the sea. The high waves caused turbulence in the sea and in the men's heart. These men had seen Jesus perform many miracles but they were not prepared for what they were about to see. JESUS SHOWED UP The men had lost sight of Jesus but He never lost sight of them. He met them at the point of their need. Jesus joined His followers in the storm to comfort them. Verse 25 states, "Jesus went unto them walking on the sea." He comes to us in our everyday struggles to calm our fearful hearts. The disciples did not expect Jesus therefore, they did not recognize Him. Verse 26, tells us that, "The men were more frightened when they saw Jesus approached, they thought He was a ghost. How understandable it is to expect the worse when you are caught in a storm. When things appear out of control anxiety sets in and our focus is centered on our present situation. Only when we have a high level of faith and a high expectation that God will move, will we cease being fearful. JESUS PRESENCE BRINGS PEACE The reality of the faithfulness of God determines how we react to the storms in our lives. Jesus' words of comfort calmed the storm that raged in the hearts of the disciples. "Don't be afraid, I am here," He said. The presence of Jesus brings peace to any situation. Storms of various kinds will continue to invade our lives, but we are never left to struggle alone. Only when we appropriate who we know Christ to be to our everyday circumstances will we be equipped to handle life storms. I am a retired early childhood educator. Currently Working part time in a senior training program. Writes Sunday School Quarterlies for a Christian publisher, for the kindergarten class. Teaches Bible study and other Christian education activities. Writes poetry as a hobby and enjoy traveling. Article Source: http://www.faithwriters.com |