“On that day, when evening had come, he said to them, “Let us go across to the other side.” And leaving the crowd, they took him with them in the boat, just as he was. And other boats were with him. And a great windstorm arose, and the waves were breaking into the boat, so that the boat was already filling. But he was in the stern, asleep on the cushion. And they woke him and said to him, “Teacher, do you not care that we are perishing?” And he awoke and rebuked the wind and said to the sea, “Peace! Be still!” And the wind ceased and there was a great calm.” Mark 4:35-39
Have you ever slept through a storm, only to hear others tell you the next day how fierce and frightening it was? Being one who sleeps soundly, I’ve done that on more than one occasion.
In the passage of scripture above, Jesus had no doubt had a tiring day as He had spoken to thousands of people along the shoreline of the Sea of Galilee. Now, He was getting some much needed rest there in the back of the boat. But when the storm arose, the disciples were clearly frightened. The waves were so fierce that water was coming into the boat, threatening to sink it. All they wanted was to get to the other side, which was looking pretty doubtful.
Imagine how those on board the boat felt, seeing Jesus peacefully sleeping as the storm raged. How relieved they must have been as He rebuked the winds and calmed the waves. No doubt, their fear was gone as quickly as the winds and waves subsided, and they marveled at what had taken place before their very eyes.
Is there something in your life today that threatens to sink your boat? Do you feel you’re about to be overcome with waves of circumstances you can’t control? I don’t know what your storm might be, but I do know that in this imperfect world of imperfect people, we all experience times where we feel the heaviness that comes from situations we didn’t want or ask for. Consequently, our particular storms and the ensuing pain they bring weigh us down.
There is Good News, though! Jesus will always be in the boat with us, whether it’s heading through stormy weather or the waters are calm and the sailing is smooth. I pray that you will discover His peace that passes all understanding. Until you’ve experienced it, you’ll never understand it. But once you do, your life will never be the same.
Today, why not trust Jesus, knowing He’s as close as the mention of His name. He will guide you safely through your storm and lead you to a place of peace and rest. He will not fail you, for He is forever faithful to His Word.
Wonderful Peace
Warren D. Cornell and Williams G. Cooper – 1889
Far away in the depths of my spirit tonight
Rolls a melody sweeter than psalm
In celestial-like strains it unceasingly falls
O’er my soul like an infinite calm
Peace, peace, wonderful peace
Coming down from the Father above
Sweep over my spirit forever, I pray
In fathomless billows of love.
Prayer: Dear God, how mighty You are as You help us maneuver our storms in life. We would definitely sink were it not for You. Your power is unfathomable and because of that, You bring peace to all situations—if we ask You. Lord God, please help us to stay close to You, for we need Your wonder working power daily. Give us eyes to see and ears to hear as we seek You in all of our ways. I pray this in Jesus name. Amen and Amen.
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