The Storm has a purpose
Then the sea arose because a great wind was blowing. John 6:18
Have you ever noticed that every story has a “storm”? Even if it isn’t a good story, there is still some kind of struggle or conflict. That’s what makes it interesting. Everyone loves to see the hero in an epic battle defeat the enemy and come out on top or face the elements of nature and overcome. The fact is that storms are unavoidable in life in nature and in every other area and relationships. If every day were the same with no struggle or no pressure, there would be no reason for faith, and there would really be no reason to exist. The point is that storms have their purpose, and that purpose is to trust God to get you through and grow you through.
In today’s reading, Jesus’ disciples got into a boat to go to the other side of the sea of Galilee. After they had gone aways into the sea, a great wind started blowing. The disciples had rowed for a few miles, in the wind, so there is no doubt that they were struggling and getting tired. There is no indication that they called for help or even thought about any option beyond their own strength. Isn’t that the way we usually start out? Thinking we can handle the winds of life that blow, and we will figure it out and come through the storm unscathed.
The almost funny part about this story is that when Jesus did show up, the disciple were afraid. They never considered that Jesus would be able to get to them in the middle of this terrible wind and storm. That is when Jesus spoke words of comfort to them, and He told them He was there now and there was no reason to be afraid. He took them safely to the other side and without delay.
It was a miracle for sure, since Jesus came to them walking on the water and when He got in the boat, they were at their destination. Those things just don’t happen without supernatural help. They defied the laws of gravity. This storm showed the disciples that they did not have to struggle alone. Jesus was available and ready to help. Even though they did not call out to Him, they realized and learned that He would show up for them. He was not going to let them fail and He was not going to let them drown. Even though Jesus did not plan the storm and purposefully send His guys into it, He was able to use that storm to display His provision and protection for them. The disciples realized they were not able to control the situation on their own but they were not without hope or help.
Today I want to encourage you to trust Jesus in your storms. Remember that He is not the one causing the crisis, but He is ready to help when called upon. Remember His words to not be afraid and that He is just a prayer away. Thank Him for His presence and His help and worship Hin the middle of the storm because you know He is taking you through. This problem is a platform for God to show up, so ask yourself: Am I in the middle of a storm or am I just between two miracles. He is with you, and you cannot experience His miracles without a storm.
Today’s scripture reading: John 6:15-21
15 Therefore when Jesus perceived that they were about to come and take Him by force to make Him king, He departed again to the mountain by Himself alone.
16 Now when evening came, His disciples went down to the sea,
17 got into the boat, and went over the sea toward Capernaum. And it was already dark, and Jesus had not come to them.
18 Then the sea arose because a great wind was blowing.
19 So when they had rowed about three or four miles, they saw Jesus walking on the sea and drawing near the boat; and they were afraid.
20 But He said to them, “It is I; do not be afraid.”
21 Then they willingly received Him into the boat, and immediately the boat was at the land where they were going.
The Daily Dose 