Today’s Key Scripture

“When He had sent the multitudes away, He went up on the mountain by Himself to pray. Now when evening came, He was alone there. But the boat was now in the middle of the sea, tossed by the waves, for the wind was contrary. Now in the fourth watch of the night Jesus went to them, walking on the sea.”

— Matthew 14:23-25

It was prayer and spending time in God’s presence that protected the lives of our Lord’s disciples. In this passage of Matthew’s Gospel, we read that during the fourth watch (3–6 a.m.), the Lord came walking toward His disciples in the midst of the storm. They were in fear, but as Jesus drew near to the ship, they willingly received Him and were saved from harm.

A friend of mine told me of being caught suddenly in a storm on the Sea of Galilee. It is approximately eight miles wide, surrounded by mountains. Although the sea itself is relatively small, it is very deep in some parts. Great storms often occur when the wind blows in a circular pattern. Almost instantly the beautiful, tranquil waters can become turbulent, tossed, and life threatening. So it is not difficult for me to imagine the situation in which the disciples found themselves.

The Scriptures tell us that as the Lord entered the boat, He not only rescued His disciples, but also had the boat transported from the middle of the storm to the safety of the shore (John 6:21).

Prayer and intimacy with the Lord changes things. And it helps us to see our need for Him in every challenge we face!

 

A Prayer for Today

Father, when the storms come, help me not to be overcome with fear. Instead, give me Your calmness. Help me to see everything through Your eyes. Thank You for replacing all my problem areas with Your love, forgiveness, righteousness, compassion, goodness, and glory. May I always be aware that You are my refuge and safety. I trust my life to You, Lord. In Jesus’ name, amen.

 

*All Scripture references are NKJV unless otherwise noted.