Calming the Storm: Getting to the Other Side of Faith

From as far back as I can recall, I have had a severe fear of any water where I could not touch or see the bottom. In this story, we see grown men who had navigated the water their whole lives, terrified. It’s easy for us to question why they were so afraid.

The Gospels show that these men had seen Jesus perform numerous miracles. Yet the disciples show us they were just men. When a severe storm came up, they reacted with all too natural fearful thoughts and words of alarm. They even accused their Master of a lack of concern. Possibly with some exasperation towards His followers, Jesus made His commands to wind and water: silence, calm, quiet, settle down.

In the past, I was taken aback by the Master’s harsh words to His disciples after this miracle. But now, after stumbling through my own times of disbelief and my fears of lack of provisions, I have had a wake-up call. I have heard His Spirit speak to me of my similar failings. As a result, I have realized that He is developing a more active faith in me during these troubled times.

Think: Look back at the chapters and stories before this one in the Gospels. What kinds of things had the disciples seen Jesus do in the past? Why do you think the disciples had difficulty trusting Jesus in this story? What was similar or different from what they had already seen?

Pray: As you spend time in prayer today, imagine Jesus asking you, “Why can’t you trust me?” Present your answers to Him and ask Him to help you develop a deeper faith.

Respond: Is there something you can do this week to demonstrate trust in Jesus? Once you come up with an idea, share it with a friend, family member, or small group member so you can keep one another accountable.

Author: Dannah Taylor, B4Church Elder + Marriage Ministry Leader