Select the verse that speaks to you.
Scripture - That day when evening came, he said to his disciples, lets go over to the other side. Leaving the crowd behind, they took him along, just as he was, in the boat. There were also other boats with him. A furious squall came up, and the waves broke over the boat, so that it was nearly swamped. Jesus was in the stern, sleeping on a cushion. The disciples woke him and said to him, Teacher don't you care if we drown? He got up, rebuked the wind and said to the waves, quiet! be still! Then the wind died down and it was completely calm. He said to the disciples, why are you so afraid? Do you still have no faith? They were terrified and asked each other, who is this? Even the wind and the waves obey him! (NIV)
Observation - The disciples lost touch with their faith when the storm surrounded them. Jesus was asleep. How could anyone sleep through this? Did he not care that they were about to die?
Jesus was aware, but not concerned. He gave the word to stop and be calm, and it happened.
Application - I can relate with the disciples. When the skies are blue and things are peaceful, my faith is strong. (so I think) Then I feel as though things are crashing in around me and I put more faith in myself to get out of the situation than trusting that Jesus will calm things. Is this a lack of faith or fear and natural instinct that swells the fight or flight reaction? I believe it is both lack of faith and natural instincts that draw us away from Christ. In the midst of the reactions that are natural within us when things go wrong, we need to remember to pray and thank God for this experience that will make us stronger in our faith.
Prayer - Lord, thank you for the times that you challenge me and my faith. Draw me closer every day that I will remember to pray and talk to you when the skies get dark and stormy.
Yes - In everything (good and bad) give thanks to the Lord.
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