Finding the Light in TraumaSample

DAY 5

TAKE COURAGE

Welcome back! It has been a whirlwind as we have studied the story of Jesus feeding five thousand. We have learned the miracle Jesus performed in feeding actually ten thousand or more people from five loaves and two fish while having leftovers after everyone was satisfied. We have also learned what came next was a storm brewing and it threatened the disciples in the middle of the Sea of Galilee.

I have made a point to share it is imperative for us to recognize our own baskets of miracle leftovers God provides us. It is in these baskets we can remember God’s power when we face the effects trauma leaves.

Scripture this week has a few more lessons for us as we seek to overcome trauma. Let us continue by reading Matthew 14:27-29:

27 But Jesus immediately said to them: “Take courage! It is I. Don’t be afraid.” 28 “Lord, if it’s you,” Peter replied, “tell me to come to you on the water.” 29 “Come,” He said. Then Peter got down out of the boat, walked on the water and came toward Jesus.

In the midst of being in potential danger as the winds continue to grow in strength, Jesus provided a moment of peace for the disciples. They were terrified that a ghost was walking on the water toward them. However, Jesus spoke and let them know everything was ok.

Trauma is the byproduct of evil and is used by the enemy to detour our spirits from our loving Father. When experiencing something traumatic, our emotional state becomes imbalanced. This imbalance leads to questioning God’s power in our life. It also leads to doubt in our faith.

Just as the winds began to strengthen against the disciples in the Sea of Galilee, you too may feel the turbulence strengthen against you from the effects of your trauma.

But remember, Jesus was with the disciples in the wind, and Jesus is with you now! The turbulence in your life may be loud, and the distractions may be strong, but hear His voice today, “Do not be afraid!”

Perhaps you are like Peter and need reassurance that Jesus is by your side—that’s ok. Notice it was in this reassurance that Peter could defy all forces of nature as he too walked on water.

With God, all things are possible, and you can overcome the waves of trauma.

I’ll see you back here tomorrow. We will learn what doubt can do in our moments of faith.

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