December 4, 2018

Depend on Jesus

The disciples went and woke him, saying, “Master, Master, we’re going to drown!” He got up and rebuked the wind and the raging waters; the storm subsided, and all was calm. –  Luke 8:24

The storm raged through the night. Lightening flashed again and again turning the blackness into daylight time after time. The weather radio sounded repeatedly. It was a long night.

There was nothing to do but ride it out in the safety of our home. Well. That’s not really true. Again and again I prayed to God for protection. I asked Him to cover the livestock with His hands. I thanked Him for staying with us through the storm.

The hours of night seemed to last forever. Just when we thought the end was near, another band of rain and wind swept over us. Again and again and again. Would it never end?

Of course, it did end. We survived to emerge and survey the damage. We were blessed. Power remained. Fences stood. The cattle were fine. We gathered ourselves together and headed to worship our God, our Protector, Our Creator.

Some storms are like that. They come for a time and then they are done. Other storms seem to linger into weeks and months, even years. And just when you think you’re standing again, here comes another wave to knock you back down. Have you been there? Do you know someone who is?

One of the most beautiful things about having a close relationship with Jesus is that we never have to walk alone. He stands with us. He settles us, reminding us again not to be afraid. Because no matter how strong the storm seems, Jesus is stronger still.

The disciples were afraid. They saw the wind and the raging waters. They were afraid they would drown. Jesus slept, seemingly oblivious to what was going on around them. When they woke Him, Jesus spoke and the storm vanished. Then He admonished them for their lack of faith.

That’s what happens to us sometimes. We get so consumed with the storm that we lose sight of the One who is in control of it all. We forget that we truly have no need to fear, no matter what happens, because Jesus can calm any situation.

That doesn’t mean we won’t have troubled waters. We do and we will. This journey to heaven isn’t easy and there is much heartache and disappointment along the way. But there is also joy and blessings and so many good and wonderful things. Jesus is the author of it all.

When the storm rages and you feel like you’re losing both your hope and your footing, refocus your eyes and your heart on Jesus. Let Him steady you on the journey. Trust Him to anchor you to withstand whatever comes your way.