Irish missionary Amy Carmichael knew what it was to live through life’s storms: poverty, illness, chronic pain, persecution. Having weathered so many hardships with God’s help, she reflected, “God is the God of the waves and the billows, and they are still His when they come over us; again and again we have proved that the overwhelming thing does not overwhelm.”
Perhaps Peter had a similar revelation when he stepped out of his fishing boat and onto the stormy sea. Imagine being there with him, blown about by the wind, buffeted by huge waves and blinded by stinging spray (see Matthew 14:24). And then to see Jesus calmly walking towards you—on the same swirling waters that threaten to hurl you to the depths (v. 25).
If the storm terrified Peter, how much more awesome Jesus must have suddenly seemed—He who couldn’t be touched by it. The overwhelming storm could not overwhelm its Creator. Even when Peter then began to sink beneath the waves, Jesus “reached out his hand and caught him” (v. 31).
If you are facing storms which feel far too big to handle, set your gaze instead on Jesus, to Whom they must all submit. You’ll find the courage and perseverance for today’s challenges in His presence. Even if you feel you are sinking, know that Jesus stands ready to hold you so that you will not be overcome.
By Chris Wale
REFLECT & PRAY
What storms threaten to overwhelm you today? How can you set your sights on the Lord, rather than the storm itself?
Dear Jesus, You reign over every thunderstorm and wave I endure. Thank You for not allowing me to sink. May I feel Your hand holding me tightly today.
The fear-filled disciples who saw Jesus walking on the lake cried out, “It’s a ghost!” (Matthew 14:26). But then they worshipfully acknowledged, “Truly you are the Son of God” (v. 33). In between the collective voices of the disciples, we hear the voices of Jesus and Peter. Following the words of Jesus in verse 27, Peter spoke, “Lord, if it’s you . . . tell me to come to you on the water” (v. 28 ). At first glance it’s easy to interpret Peter’s “if” as implying uncertainty. An alternate rendering of the word if is since. Given Peter’s actions, it seems to me that this translation makes sense. When Jesus is the one directing us, doubt can yield to confidence.
Arthur Jackson
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