‘Then he asked them, “Why are you afraid? Do you still have no faith?”’ Mark 4:40(NLT)
‘One day Jesus said to his disciples, “Let’s cross to the other side of the lake.” So they got into a boat and started out. As they sailed across, Jesus settled down for a nap. But soon a fierce storm came down on the lake. The boat was filling with water, and they were in real danger. The disciples went and woke him up, shouting, “Master, Master, we’re going to drown!” When Jesus woke up, he rebuked the wind and the raging waves. Suddenly the storm stopped and all was calm. Then he asked them, “Where is your faith?” The disciples were terrified and amazed. “Who is this man?” they asked each other. “When he gives a command, even the wind and waves obey him!”’ Luke 8:22-25(NLT)
There are numerous examples in Scripture of people struggling with fear: Abraham and Sarah, Moses, David, Jonah, and Esther, just to name a few. Even the disciples, who walked with Jesus day in and day out, struggled with fear!
The disciples lack of faith is shown in their fear at the storm they encountered on the Sea of Galilee. Several of the disciples were trained fishermen, experienced at navigating rough waters and storms. Even still, when a great storm came over the lake, fear overwhelmed Jesus’ followers. While Jesus slept soundly through the storm, the disciples woke Him in a panic. Jesus proved His authority over the wind and the waves by quieting the storm.
Looking at your life today, where is your faith? Are you resting in Christ, knowing He has authority over your life, or are you struggling to trust Him in the middle of a storm? He can calm any storm. Do you believe He can save you from yours?
Father God, thank You that I can rest securely in You. I praise You for Your authority over my life. Help me see Your power more clearly. Forgive me for the times when I am weak in my faith. Help my unbelief. May I focus on who You are when I face troubling times. In Jesus’ name, amen.
from Love God Greatly: Fear & Anxiety