Today, many are experiencing hurt, loss, and disunity. We see it all all around us. But as Christinas we shouldn’t lose heart because we have a Savior who is near to us—a place where we can experience His safety and His presence.
Jesus never promised that life would be absent of trial nor struggle. On the contrary, the disciples strengthened those they brought the Gospel to with these words from Acts 14:22 (NIV), “We must go through many hardships to enter the kingdom of God,” they said. Yes, you may be facing trouble, fatigue, or some type of adversity, but you don’t need to face whatever you are encountering alone.
Jesus invites you to come to Him in your storms, bringing your fears and doubts. Jesus told Peter to come, but Peter needed to take the physical step out of the boat to receive Jesus’s invitation. You will need to accept Jesus’ invitation to come. The moment Peter took his eyes off of Jesus, he saw nothing but the wind and waves, and he started to sink.
But immediately Jesus spoke to them, saying, ‘Take courage, it is I; do not be afraid.’ Peter said to Him, ‘Lord, if it is You, command me to come to You on the water.’ And He said, ‘Come!’ And Peter got out of the boat, and walked on the water and came toward Jesus. But seeing the wind, he became frightened, and beginning to sink, he cried out, ‘Lord, save me!’ Immediately Jesus stretched out His hand and took hold of him, and said to him, ‘You of little faith, why did you doubt?’ When they got into the boat, the wind stopped. And those who were in the boat worshiped Him, saying, ‘You are certainly God’s Son!’
Matthew 14:27-33
Do you feel the weight of your battle? Where are your eyes? Has your gaze been focused on your difficulty far too long rather than crying out to Jesus in faith? He will catch you by the hand and raise you above your seemingly impossible surroundings. Grab onto Jesus and experience the promise of His safety. Keep your eyes looking straight ahead to your Comforter. As you and Jesus climb into your boat together, Jesus will calm your storm.
If you are with Jesus, you are safe.
Just as Peter and the others landed safely at their destination (see John 6:21), it wasn’t without fear.
They held onto Jesus through the storm.
Although you may not have anticipated what you face today or even the outcome of a situation, you have the protection of Jesus’s safety. He will bring you carefully to the other side of your obstacle. And His safety and presence will be enough to guide you, comfort you, and strengthen you.
Trust Him. He knows what He’s doing.
Journeying with Him,