You have probably read in the Gospel of Matthew about the disciples in a boat on the Sea of Galilee. Suddenly a terrifying storm erupts, terrifying even to skilled fishermen. In the midst of the storm, Jesus walks on the water to meet them and calm them down. Peter walks on the water in the storm to greet Jesus, but then becomes afraid and starts to sink, until he fixes his eyes back on Jesus. If you have not read that story, you may have heard sermons on it or heard hymen sung about it . But did you know there is a similar storm story in the Bible? It is told in John 6:16-21.
In John’s telling, Jesus walks on the water as well. But the last sentences grabbed me.
But he[Jesus] said to them, “It is I; don’t be afraid.” Then they were willing to take him into the boat, and immediately the boat reached the shore where they were heading. vs 20-21 NIV
Are you in a storm right now? Have you been calling out for help, yet it seems your words have swirled back into your mouth only to be swallowed? Does anybody hear your cries? Does God?
Read the verses again. The answer is, yes. God hears. He comes to you. He always will. But, are you willing to let God into your boat?
What happened when the disciples let Jesus in? It meant that they had to release control to Him. As soon as they recognized it was Jesus, He told them to calm down and not be afraid anymore. Only then were they open to the idea of letting Jesus steer their boat.
When we let Jesus into our situation, we must be willing to let Him take control. That may require making room for Him in our thoughts, just as the disciples had to make room for Him in their boat. It may mean tossing some things aside so Jesus has priority in our life.
Look what happens when they let Him in and made room for Him. It says immediately the boat reached the shore. Now, I am not saying that all of your problems will vanish if you give them to Jesus. (Thought that may happen. All things are possible with God.) But, He will steer you right and lead you along the path you need to be headed. What’s more, He will stay in the boat with you until you reach the shore.
At first glance, it may seem rather scary to lose control. But, like the disciples in that boat, when we toss fear overboard and allow faith to take up space in our life instead, then Jesus will guide our course to His glory and our best benefit. Guaranteed…every time.
