Read John 6:16-21.

There are moments in life when our heart is pounding, our mouth is dry, our mind is racing, our adrenaline is surging, our soul is desperate. In these life-altering trials, we can think that God has completely misled us or outright rejected us. But God often permits His children to go through valleys so that their trust in Him will be strengthened and their dependence on Him will be deepened.

Jesus took just such an opportunity with His disciples in the midst of a literal storm. He had sent His disciples ahead of Him across the Sea of Galilee, which was prone to violent storms (see Mark 6:45; John 6:17). Toward the middle of the night, as they were battered with strong winds and rough waters, they must have wondered why Jesus wasn’t with them in their hour of need. Certainly, the man who had turned water into wine, healed diseases with a word, and just fed 5,000 with a measly lunch could have spared them this struggle.

The storms and hardships we face in life are not random. They aren’t signs of abandonment or divine punishment. You see, God is not the author of storms—whether storms that are a consequence of Satan’s attacks, others’ sinfulness, or our own foolishness—but God, in His sovereign will, allows them. The disciples were in a tempest not of their own making. They were facing a dangerous storm precisely because they had obeyed Jesus. Similarly, you and I may face trials, even when we’re walking in God’s will, as part of His good plan. God never promised an easy journey to heaven. Jesus said in this world we’ll have troubles—but we need not fear, for He is with us and has overcome the world (see John 16:33).

The disciples, as veteran seamen, knew this storm was no average storm. Jesus didn’t come to them immediately though they were struggling. You see, omnipotence can afford to wait. Jesus was using this circumstance to reveal His divine power once again—another sign that He was the long-expected Savior. He came to the disciples walking on the treacherous waves. The disciples looked through the bleak darkness and foaming water and saw a majestic figure with full authority over creation—and they were afraid (see John 6:19). But Jesus comforted them, “It is I; don’t be afraid” (v. 20). Before Jesus took them out of the storm, He took the storm out of their hearts. He gave them the peace of His presence, revealing His power and majesty, so that they could take heart—and we can, too.

Prayer: Jesus, help me remember that You are master over every storm in my life. I know You have overcome the world and all its troubles, so I can take heart and have hope in Your promises. When I am tempted to despair in trials, renew my faith and draw me closer to You. I pray in the name of Jesus. Amen.

“When they had rowed about three or four miles, they saw Jesus approaching the boat, walking on the water; and they were frightened” (John 6:19).

Learn more in Dr. Michael A. Youssef’s sermon Evidence of the Exclusivity of Jesus: Fear to Faith: WATCH NOW | LISTEN NOW

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