SCRIPTURE

But the disciples, who were now in the middle of the lake, ran into trouble, for their boat was tossed about by the high winds and heavy seas. At about four o’clock in the morning, Jesus came to them, walking on the waves! When the disciples saw him walking on top of the water, they were terrified and screamed, “A ghost!” Then Jesus said, “Be brave and don’t be afraid. I am here!” - Matthew 14:24-27 TPT

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PRAYER

Dear Jesus,

I feel a bit like I’m in the middle of the lake with the disciples, being tossed about in heavy seas. I keep looking at the storm, watching it grow, the ferocity of it, and know, in my weakness, I am in trouble. I start trying to solve things as usual. I turn to the people in the boat, but they are overwhelmed by the same rising waters. If I would only look directly into the storm, you’re there, speaking to me and letting me know I don’t have to be afraid. The courage to make it through doesn’t originate with me. You don’t say to dig deep or pull yourself up by your bootstraps. You say, “I am here.” You aren’t waiting to greet me once the storm subsides; you are right there in the middle of it, giving me the strength to hold on. And so I will.

In your strength, and name,

Amen.

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JOURNAL REFLECTION

What does it mean to you that Jesus is right in the middle of the storm? How is that different from being a “light at the end of the tunnel?” How can you be brave today? For yourself? For someone else?

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CALL TO ACTION

As Christ-followers, we know we are not immune to the storms of life, and we are feeling the weariness, exhaustion, pain, grief, struggle, and loss acutely in this uncertain, ever-changing time. But, as Christ-followers, we also know what incredible comfort there is for us in trusting God to cover us, protect us, walk with us, and hold our hand through whatever we face. Today, listen to the song, “You Make Me Brave", and focus on the peace in its lyrics and in God’s presence.