Don’t Be Afraid: There is Safety in the Fiercest Storm

Waves crashing relentlessly all around you. Your small boat will not be able to withstand the fury much longer. Is that how you feel in the world today? About the virus that arrived uninvited into our lives and turned them upside down. Don’t be afraid, there is safety in the fiercest storm.

The disciples experienced this truth. You can read the entire story here

After watching Jesus feeding 5,000 people with 5 loaves of bread and 2 fish the disciples collected 12 baskets of left-overs. Freshly finished witnessing the miracle, they boarded the boat as Jesus had instructed them and headed for the opposite shore.

The Storm Arrives. But, Don’t Be Afraid, There is Safety in the Fiercest Storm

And then a storm blew in.

Imagine their reactions. Did fear replace exhilaration? Did it fill them as they threw themselves into tasks to keep the boat upright?

I have been there. Have you? In a situation that left you with fear pulsing rhythmically in your body as you did what you could to save what was dear to you?

I recognized that I was doing just that the other night. Sleep eluded me.

My youngest son (a fully grown adult 😊) and my extended family live in Canada. With travel restrictions looming, I was chagrined to realize that I was becoming fearful.

My mind raced as I examined “what if scenarios”. Possible solutions and anxiety flooded my mind as I rode the waves of the storm of my own making. My energy and focus were entirely on the hypothetical situation. It was as if I had blinders on.

Now back to the disciples. “Shortly before dawn, Jesus went out to them walking on the water”. Matthew 14:25 (NIV) They were terrified, convinced they had seen a ghost.

Jesus, their friend, and teacher approached them unrecognized. The only one who could save them.

I can relate. Can you? With an almost herculean effort, I wrenched my attention away from my storm and onto Jesus. He had been there all along. But I had not recognized Him.

I remembered that Jesus still says to us today,” Take courage, do not be afraid.” But what now? Words are easy to say but, I still felt anxious.

Action is required.

Action is Required to Find Safety in Your Storm

Disciple Peter took action. He responded with “Lord, if it’s you,” Peter replied, “tell me to come to you on the water.” Matthew 14:28 (NIV)

Jesus responded with “Come”. Peter in an amazing act of trust boldly did. He walked on the water toward Jesus.

But he became afraid when he saw the wind and he began to sink.

Jesus responded immediately; he caught Peter.

When they climbed into the boat the storm died down. The disciples at that moment realized He was the Son of God and worshipped.

Like Peter, I needed to act on my faith. My action was a lot less dramatic 😊 though. I remembered the times Jesus answered my prayers that seemed impossible. I recalled how He had provided for my family. I thought about His loving, good nature, His grace, and perfect timing. I became thankful. I relaxed and my storm was stilled.

When fearful thoughts rise up again I repeat the process. It is getting faster.

There is no doubt in my mind that there is safety in the fiercest storm.

Some Questions to Help You in Your Storm

Do you have a few more minutes? These questions might help you.

What are you afraid of right now? (Be honest with yourself)

What prayer(s) has Jesus answered for you?

How has He shown His love to you?

What do you know about Jesus that causes you to trust Him?

Will you call out to Him? Tell Him about your worries and fears.

Will you trust that He will answer?

Like me, you likely will have to put this process on repeat. But that’s ok, He is patient.

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