When You Get A "Word" From Jesus (Mk. 6:45-52)

Read Mark 6:45-52.

The disciples got a "word" from Jesus.  They were to "get into the boat and go ahead of Him to the other side to Bethsaida . . . " (Mk. 6:45).

Jesus still speaks specific things to specific people in specific situations.  When He does . . .

1.  That doesn't mean you won't encounter a "storm" in the midst of your obedience.

2.  That doesn't mean that you won't have some hard "rowing" and some hard going.

3.  That doesn't mean that you won't be tempted to fear.

4.  That doesn't mean that you will have a soft, understanding heart.

Jesus in The Storm (Mk. 6:47-52)

Read Mark 6:47-52.

• Jesus looks at you.
• He sees your storm.
• He sees your effort.
• He sees your weariness.
• He sees your frustration.
• He sees your fear.
• Jesus comes to you.
• He doesn't supervise from a distance but gets "up close and personal."
• He is not merely "God out there" but "God right here."
• Jesus talks to you.
• He speaks encouragement.
• He speaks peace.
• He speaks reassurance.
• He speaks relief.
• Jesus gets in with you.
• He's already been in your storm; He wants to be in your "boat."
• You need His presence as much after the storm as you did during the storm.

If There Was No Storm (Mt. 14:22-23)

Read Matthew 14:22-23.

I'm sure the disciples preferred that there wasn't a storm.  Only Jesus can take something so threatening and make it so beneficial.

If there was no storm . . .

1.  The disciples would've missed Jesus' coming to them in a most unusual way.

2. The disciples would've missed hearing Jesus' comforting words.

3.  Peter would've missed a wonderful opportunity (walking on water at Jesus' invitation).

4.  The disciples might have missed the revelation about Jesus (Mt. 14:33).

There is benefit in the "storm" you're in.  Trust that God knows what He's doing.  While that's always profitable, it's rarely easy.  Anyone can "trust" Him when circumstances are sunny.  Will you trust Him when it looks as if you're under a stubborn, black cloud?

My Prayer (12/4/16)

Read Matthew 14:25.

Come to me, Lord, during my storm.  When I know You are there, it makes all the difference.  Thank You for not allowing me to go through this adversity by myself.  It is comforting to know You are there.

Storm On The Horizon

"Storm On The Horizon"
Photo taken 7-16-16 at 8:52 P.M. in Apollo, PA

There sure are some eerie looking skies in southwest Pennsylvania!

"Do you know how to discern the appearance of the sky, but cannot discern the signs of the times?" (Mt. 16:3)

Faith For The Middle (Lu. 8:22, 25)

"Where is your faith?" (Lu. 8:25, MEV)

This refers back to verse 22, where Jesus declared that the disciples were going to the other side. They wouldn't arrive at the other side if they died somewhere in the middle.

Don't let your faith die in the middle due to agitation, fear or disruption.  Smooth sailing isn't guaranteed to you, but the word of the Lord remains in effect.

You can describe your current storm in detail.  Can you recall God's promise, though?  He will do what He said.

My Prayer (03/16/16)

photo:  www.pixabay.com

"And in the fourth watch of the night He came to them, walking on the sea" (Mt. 14:25).

Come to me, Lord, during my stormy difficulty.  When I know You are there, it makes all the difference.  Thank You for not allowing me to go through this on my own.  Your initiative is greatly appreciated.