Greetings from Kenya! I’m so excited to introduce you to today’s guest blogger. Lois is a Christian wife and mama who loves Jesus and loves writing. She combines the two at LiveNourished.net where she helps women cultivate a fruitful faith for the glory of God. She writes on topics such as faith, trials, motherhood, homemaking, social issues, creativity and serving God. Sign up for her E-List to get encouragements and exclusives, plus access to Live Nourished’s Free Printable Library.
On a recent vacation at the coast, we had a gorgeous view out of the front window: a lighthouse, warm yellow sand and miles of glistening sea.
But we also had a thunderstorm or two!
One night, the wind was howling, the sea was roaring and the rain was drumming down on the roof and windows. Then, a huge rumble of thunder echoed through the air. Suddenly, a flash of lighting illuminated the view.
The loud, rushing wind and the incessant crashing of the waves continued for a few hours.
Some people love all that, and even find it relaxing or soothing, but I’ve always been a bit more like the disciples – worried and alarmed by it.
Matthew, Mark and Luke all tell us how the disciples were in the boat and a fierce gale of wind arose, and the boat began to flounder (see Matthew 8:23-27, Mark 4:35-41, Luke 8:22-25).
Their feet raced in rhythm with their hearts as they rushed to find Jesus, begging Him to save them from drowning.
Can you imagine their surprise when they found Him asleep?
There was the boat, tossing and turning in the lurching waves, and there was Jesus, calm and still in the midst of it all, resting and sleeping.
Why? Because He’s the One that has authority over all He has made – including the most powerful displays of creation. The power of the wind and the waves is nothing compared to HIS power.
That’s why when He rebuked the wind and told it to hush and be still, it did. Like an obedient dog hearing its master’s command, it stopped racing around and howling and sat down.
This same Jesus is alive today.
And the wind and the waves still obey His voice.
So whatever it is that you’re facing today, know this: He has ultimate authority over it.
What should be our response to that comforting fact? Faith and amazement.
He said to them, “Why are you afraid, you men of little faith?” Then He got up and rebuked the winds and the sea, and it became perfectly calm. The men were amazed, and said, “What kind of a man is this, that even the winds and the sea obey Him?” (Matthew 8:26-27)
The reason for the disciples’ fearfulness was a lack of faith.
When we’re worried and anxious about things, we’re not acting in faith.
My mom always said something that reflects this:
When you’re trusting, you’re not worrying… and when you’re worrying, you’re not trusting.
How true this is! No matter how much we try to kid ourselves, the truth is that faith and fear can’t exist side by side.
And if there’s ANYONE we can have faith in and trust in this crazy, cruel world, it’s Jesus – the One who has overcome the world.
Let’s ask with the disciples, “Increase our faith!”, and with the man who pleaded for Jesus to help his son, “I do believe; help my unbelief.” (Mark 9:24)
Then, let’s trust Him, and walk by faith and not by sight (see 2 Corinthians 5:7), for He is faithful, trustworthy and has ALL authority – over everything!
When you lie down, you will not be afraid; When you lie down, your sleep will be sweet. Do not be afraid of sudden fear Nor of the onslaught of the wicked when it comes; For the Lord will be your confidence And will keep your foot from being caught. (Proverbs 3:24-26)
Now, join us for this week’s Encouraging Word Wednesday linkup! Just leave a link or two below and then visit another blogger and encourage them with comments and shares!
Thanks, Lois, for this encouraging word!
Blessings to you, Charlie, as you serve in Kenya!