You’ve probably heard these Bible messages about how Jesus calmed the storm. It is no doubt an amazing miracle.
But, this Scripture reading from Matthew 8:23-27 is not just about calming a storm. It’s a story about faith and discovering the truth about Jesus Christ. The disciples were terrified and doubted their safety, despite Jesus being with them.
When He calmed the storm with just a command, it demonstrated His divine power and reassured them that their faith in Him was well-placed. This story teaches us that even in the midst of life’s tempests, trusting in Jesus can bring peace and reveal His true nature. Maybe this lesson will help you learn to overcome your anxiety and fears. So, let’s see what Matthew has to say.
No Problem Too Big for God – Jesus Calms The Storm
When He got into the boat, His disciples followed Him.
And behold, there arose a great storm on the sea, so that the boat was being covered with the waves; but Jesus Himself was asleep.
And they came to Him and woke Him, saying, “Save us, Lord; we are perishing!”
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 8:23-27 NASB
Do You Have Anxiety And Fears?
Of course you do! So do I! Everyone is anxious or fearful about something. It ties in with stress and worry.
At the time of this writing, many people around the world are facing tough economic times including loss of jobs, loss of homes and nowhere to turn. Economic challenges can significantly contribute to anxiety by creating uncertainty about the future.
The fear of not being able to meet basic needs, such as paying bills or providing for one’s family, can lead to constant worry and stress. Additionally, the loss of financial stability can erode one’s sense of security and self-worth, further exacerbating feelings of anxiety.
Christians are being harassed, and many even killed because of their faith as we speak. For instance, in regions like North Korea, Iran, China, Afghanistan, and Somalia, Christians face severe persecution and are often forced to practice their faith in secret. In these countries, being openly Christian can result in imprisonment, torture, or even death.
This relentless persecution adds an immense burden of fear and anxiety to believers in these areas. But the good news is, we find in this passage that there is someone to turn to who can ease your burdens. His name is Jesus Christ.
About The Storm
The disciples were mostly fishermen and set out across the Sea of Galilee just as they had many times before. But, a sudden storm took them by surprise and they feared for their lives. The disciples were terrified as the waves crashed over their small boat, and the wind howled fiercely around them. They frantically tried to keep the boat afloat, but their efforts seemed futile against the raging storm. In their panic, they woke Jesus, who was sleeping peacefully, and begged Him to save them, fearing they would perish.
A Question of Faith
Jesus had performed many miracles before this event so the disciples were perfectly aware of His power. Yet, they still panicked. Sound familiar? Do we panic first, and then reach out to God? Yes, I’m guilty.
God’s Power
Even with His great powers, the disciples did not comprehend the scope of what Jesus could do. The thought never occurred to them that He could control the weather.
Just as we often do, they underestimated God’s unlimited power.
What About Us? Can Jesus Calm the Storm in Our Life?
When we experience fear or anxiety in our lives do we underestimate God’s power and what He can do for us? Do we feel our situation is too big for God? Whatever it is we are feeling, let’s remember that God is big and can handle it.
“Our God is an Awesome God” – He Can Calm Our Storms
Just as the song says, remember that God created the storms and everything else in nature. A powerful example is when God parted the Red Sea for the Israelites as they fled from Egypt. With Pharaoh’s army closing in, the Israelites were trapped between the sea and their pursuers. But God, through Moses, divided the waters, allowing them to cross on dry ground and escape to safety.
So, no matter how doubtful we may feel, He is still in complete control. With a little faith, God can calm the storms in our lives.
The Answer is Simple
No matter what situation we find ourselves in right now Christ is willing and able to help. But, we have to ask. With that said, He may not always answer the way we want. But He answers in a way that’s best for us.
Just as a loving father would never give his child a snake when asked for a fish, God will not give us something harmful when we seek His help. He knows what is best for us, even if it doesn’t align with our immediate desires. Therefore, we must trust that His answers, though sometimes unexpected, are always for our ultimate good.
So, if you think that your problem is too big for God, it isn’t. Talk to Him.
Love in Christ
– Bob
If you would like to learn how you can receive the love and life-changing experience of Jesus Christ, please take a moment to look at John 3:16 for more information.