A storm began to rage as Jesus Christ’s disciples were crossing the Sea of Galilee. It was an excursion they had routinely made numerous times before; in fact, some of them were fishermen by trade. They knew exactly how to handle various weather conditions, yet, during this particular voyage, Scripture tells us that a dreadful “tempest” engulfed them with such ferocity; it caused panic. Even the seasoned fishermen aboard the ship, were no match for the tumultuous storm that overtook them (Matthew 8:23-24, NKJV). Incidentally, Webster’s Dictionary defines “tempest” as: a violent windstorm accompanied by heavy rain and possibly hail.
The disciples encountered a storm so furious that extreme terror and desperation dominated their minds and actions. They frantically feared for their lives, and did not hesitate to rouse the Lord Jesus Christ, who was sleeping aboard, to plead for His help. Amazingly, amidst all the great turmoil and chaos, Jesus slept peacefully. When I read this passage, I couldn’t help thinking; why should Jesus fear, for He was indeed sovereign over the sea! Nevertheless, Jesus arose nonchalantly, admonished His disciples for their meager faith, and rebuked the savage winds (Matthew 8:25-26).
Instantly, the roaring sea calmed! The disciples marveled and exclaimed “Who can this be, that even the winds and the sea obey Him” (Matt. 8:27)? But, that is exactly how God conducts His will! What is inconceivable or literally impossible for mankind to perform, is very much possible for God (Matthew 19:26; Mark 10:27; Luke 18:27)). The believer’s faith is constantly being challenged, especially when God allows the “storms” of life to toss him to and fro, as was preached recently. It is while in the midst of trials, that He wants His children to turn to Him for comfort, peace, and resolution. He can be trusted and will deliver His elect out of trouble. When the righteous cry for help, the Lord hears and delivers them out of all their troubles (Psalm 34:17).
In the 107th Psalm, the psalmist writes: Then they cried to the Lord in their trouble, and he delivered them from their distress. He made the storm be still, and the waves of the sea were hushed. Then they were glad that the waters were quiet, and he brought them to their desired haven (107:28-30). Here, the writer seems to use the analogy of sailors in trouble at sea, to which God delivers them. He ”calms the storm”— He makes life bearable and tolerable for those who put their trust in Him. Even in the most terrifying situation, God can sustain you! Ultimately, He imparts boldness in place of fear, hope instead of despair, and peace instead of anxiousness!
The Apostle Paul clearly states that the peace God provides to the believer transcends all understanding (Philippians 4:7). This, of course, can comfort those amid tribulations in ways that are unexplainable. But, it is only through faith that this concept can be conceived and is permissible. It’s a belief or action ludicrous to those who do not know God, because they are incapable of comprehending it (1 Corinthians 2:14). Faith is at the heart of Christianity! Fundamentally, it is how Christians walk (Romans 1:17; 2 Corinthians 5:6; Galatians 2:20, 3:11; Hebrews 11:1).
At times, Jesus Christ’s disciples struggled with their faith, and they walked with Him for three years! Knowing this gives me hope, especially when I struggle with my own faith. And many times, I do struggle! But, praise be to God, that I do have a gracious, merciful, forgiving, patient, longsuffering, and loving God, who justified me, regardless of my transgressions and weaknesses! He is with me in the storms of life. Amen!
Posted on November 1st, 2008 by Robert
Filed under: From the Pew