WHO IS THIS?
A CERTAIN CONFIDENCE: LIVING WITH UNQUESTIONING FAITH IN CHRIST IN AN EVER-CHANGING WORLD (24 DAYS IN LUKE) / DAY 8
The television was on in the living room, but I was immersed in a good book and not paying attention. My husband interrupted my train of thought to ask a question: “Who is this?” I glanced up and noted that a woman was on the screen promoting a product in a commercial. Apparently, she was famous. She looked somewhat familiar, but I had no idea what she was known for or if she could be trusted.
In response to Jesus rebuking storm-tossed waters and howling wind, the disciples ask, “Who is this?” Their finite human minds are struggling to process what they find hard to understand. They want to trust, but all they feel is terror. Frankly, Jesus had already invited them to go to the other side of the lake together with Him. The Savior of the world was peacefully taking a nap, but His disciples questioned whether He was leading them to a watery death.
I have battled the raging winds of adversity, and overwhelming doubt and fear have flooded my soul and threatened to drown my faith. Instead of resting in the care of Christ, I have questioned why He has allowed me to experience the dangerous downpour. I forget He is always with me, and no force on earth can prevent Him from saving me. I fail to remember He speaks with authority even over the chaos I cannot control.
Friend, if you feel like you are drowning right now, it’s important to remind yourself of what is secure and unchanging as the whirlwind rages. Instead of asking “When will this end? or “Why is this happening?” in doubt, we can encourage our weary hearts a faith-filled question: “What do I know about Jesus that can help me overcome my fear?”
Here are some Truths to help anchor you during the fiercest storm:
You will not fall apart, drown, or end up hopeless as long as you continue to REST in God’s sovereign control. He created all things — including the storm. He stands before all things, and in Him all things — including YOU — are held together. (Colossians 1:16-17)
You do not have to figure out how to stop the tempest in your own limited strength…you can RELY on the God Who has authority over the timing and duration of whatever you are experiencing. When you cry out to the Lord in trouble, He responds by bringing you out of your distress. He stills the storm to a whisper. (Psalm 107:28-29)
You can RESOLVE to set aside fear and keep moving forward with resilient faith even as the storm rages. Hold on to His promises for dear life, and they will help you overcome that feeling of despair:
“The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.” (Deuteronomy 31:8)
“When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you.When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze.” (Isaiah 43:2)
“I sought the Lord, and he answered me; he delivered me from all my fears.” (Psalm 34:4)
“You are my hiding place; you will protect me from trouble and surround me with songs of deliverance.” (Psalm 32:7)
Trust your Savior speaks with authority over your storm.