Do Not Be Afraid
On Sunday Pastor Scott talked with us about the hard sayings of Scripture. He encouraged us to not shy away from them. Instead, by the grace of God through faith and with the tools needed to interpret Scripture, “investigate the hard sayings and grow.” This was once again an interesting and helpful message.
In this brief devotion, I’m purposely staying clear of the hard sayings in John, chapter 6. Instead, I invite you to look at verse 20. The disciples were a few miles from shore sailing their way across the Sea of Galilee when “the sea became rough because a strong wind was blowing.” It was in the midst of the high winds and rocky sea that Jesus came to them – walking on the water. Understandably, the disciples were shocked and afraid seeing Jesus in the throes of the storm. “It is I; do not be afraid.” Jesus encouraged!
“It is I; do not be afraid.” That is the clear Gospel message most of us need to hear and hold and have stored away in our heart. I know your storm does not look like mine. But I know you are in one. Or if you are not in one now, don’t get too comfortable. It’s coming!
Whatever violent tempest you feel is overwhelming you, Jesus is saying, “You are not handling it alone. I am with you. You don’t have to be afraid. I will calm the waters. You will not capsize. I’ve got you! Trust me.”
I said at the outset of this devotion that John 6:20 is not a hard verse to understand. That’s true. But it is a hard verse to apply when we need it the most.
The other day, a good friend asked Marcia and me, “How do you manage the stress in your life?” I gave a weak answer at the time. Now that I have thought about the question, here is how I would respond: Not very well until I remember I am not dealing with the threat by myself.
Jesus is not a liar! He is with us always until the very end (Matt. 28:20). He is with us to hold us up, strengthen our will, grant us wisdom, instill courage, and grant what we need to face whatever life is demanding of us.
Remembering the promises of Jesus is crucial to a Christian’s wellbeing.
Want to talk about it? Deacons are available.
article by Joel Hempel
