Luke 8:22 One day Jesus said to his disciples, “Let us go over to the other side of the lake.” So they got into a boat and set out.
The story of Jesus calming the storm is one of my favorites. I understand it on a gut level, probably because I am so like the disciples at times, fearful to the point of panic, while Jesus is placidly napping in the boat because all is well despite appearances.
Luke 8:23 As they sailed, he fell asleep. A squall came down on the lake, so that the boat was being swamped, and they were in great danger.
In verse 50, Jesus tells Jairus, “Don’t be afraid; just believe….” There is much wisdom there. Faith and fear cannot coexist. I’ve been working on overcoming this tendency for a long time. At this point, I can at least acknowledge, “I do believe. Help my unbelief.”
Luke 8:24 The disciples went and woke him, saying, “Master, Master, we’re going to drown!” He got up and rebuked the wind and the raging waters; the storm subsided, and all was calm.
Precious Savior, I do believe. Yet I still struggle with fear and doubt, anxiety and anger. Help me to lay these emotions at your feet so that I can partner with You in faith. Thank You that Your strength is perfected in my weakness. Amen.
Luke 8:25 “Where is your faith?” he asked his disciples. In fear and amazement they asked one another, “Who is this? He commands even the winds and the water, and they obey him.”
Have a blessed day.