Safety in the Storm

Boats of every size and description have long been used to help man either ride the ocean waves, or more practically, make a living. They have played a pivotal role in wartime and in peacetime. Ocean-loving holiday makers have relaxed and enjoyed the scenery, travelling from country to country.
   
During Jesus’ earthly ministry, He, too, made use of them, and could either be seen teaching the people from a boat, if the crowds got too big, or mentoring His disciples as they began to learn and see for themselves who He truly was.
   
Of course, boats are only fine as long as the water stays on the outside. It’s when the water begins to seep into the inside that the trouble begins. So, are we being careful about what we let in through the eye-gate and ear-gate into the boats of our lives? The Scriptures speak clearly about men’s hearts failing them for fear (panic attacks) in the end times because of what is coming on the earth.
   
At the beginning of 2020, we could never have imagined what this season would bring. However, what a blessing that even in the midst of all this happening, God is in control and because He holds the future we can trust Him, as He is our safe haven.
   
In today’s scripture, Jesus spoke these words to His beleaguered disciples as they struggled with the waves and the wind against them. He had specifically instructed them to get into the boat and go over to the other side, while He went away to pray.  But He knew exactly where they were, was always mindful of them, and by implication had declared they would get to the other side.  However, just when it seemed it was all getting too much, He walked towards them on the ocean waves and calmed their fears with the words, “Take courage, I am here, do not be afraid”. As they witnessed His Lordship over the wind and waves, they declared “Truly, You are the Son of God”(verse 33).
   
Today, and every day, He knows exactly where you are, and is right there with you. 
Reassuringly, the Holy Spirit takes those same words of Jesus and whispers to all who will hear, as people battle with Covid-19 and its repercussions and aftermath, “Take courage, I am here, do not be afraid”. He who is the Son of God, and Lord of the wind and the waves, is the anchor for our soul.  Hold fast to His words, for they will steer the boat of your life safely through the storm.
   
Prayer: Lord, thank You that You are Lord of the seasons of our lives, and that You hold the future. Help me to keep my eyes fixed on You and to hold fast to Your words, whatever the future may bring. In Jesus’ name. Amen.