Seven Signs of GloryNäide

Day 6: A Path Through The Storm

If we are to “believe that Jesus is the Christ” and find “life in his name”, as John hopes we will (John 20:31 ESV), we must be fully persuaded of His nature and character. We need unshakable confidence in His love, deep-rooted assurance of His care, and resolute belief in His power.

One of the greatest fears gripping our world today is the ever-more-inescapable power of nature. With climate change a devastating reality, we are seeing unprecedented natural disasters. Earthquakes, wildfires and tropical storms rage unchecked, highlighting our human fragility. The overwhelming force of creation can leave us feeling small, powerless, and vulnerable.

If you’re struggling with fear and uncertainty today, then John’s fifth ‘sign of glory’—Jesus walking on water – offers deep reassurance. This is not merely a dramatic, splashy spectacle but a deliberate revelation of Jesus’ authority over creation: an undeniable demonstration of His sovereignty over the elements He formed.

Imagine yourself among the disciples that night. Exhausted, they had rowed “three or four miles” against the wind, their small boat battered by relentless waves. The Sea of Galilee, infamous for sudden, violent storms, had turned hostile, and these seasoned fishermen knew the danger all too well. Then – on top of the chaos – a figure emerged from the darkness, walking on the water. It was like something out of a horror film: wind howling, rain lashing, the boat pitching wildly – and now, a man striding across the waves. How would you have felt? John sums up the disciples’ mood: “they were frightened” (verse 19).

Then, Jesus spoke. His words cut through the storm and their terror: “It is I” (verse 20). The Greek phrase used here, ego eimi, echoes the very language God uses to reveal Himself to Moses at the burning bush: “I AM” (Exodus 3:14 ESV). This was not just reassurance; this was Christ declaring His divinity. The One treading upon the stormy sea was no mere man. He was YAHWEH, the Creator of heaven and earth, stepping into the disciples’ fear and revealing His awe-inspiring power.

If fear grips your heart today – whether from global turmoil, personal trials, or the storms within – pursue the presence of Jesus and let His Word cut through your worries. He reigns over nature, commands the waves and calms the tempest. You may feel out of control, but He is not. He is the Great I AM, the One is first and foremost, forever.

Prayerfully reflect. Jesus is safe to trust, mighty to save, and worthy of your worship. Amid the current storms of your own life, what would it look like for you to step out in faith and trust Him? What habits or rhythms could you put in place in your life to help you deepen your trust in God?