Boaters in the Central Valley are somewhat rare. Yet there are a few people who own a ski or a fishing boat, but not ocean traveling vessels as the story from the Bible. In the book of Mark it describes a moment when Jesus was in a ship during a storm, “A furious squall came up, and the waves broke over the boat, so that it was nearly swamped. Jesus was in the stern, sleeping on a cushion. The disciples woke him and said to him, ‘Teacher, don’t you care if we drown?’” Mark 4:35-38
When the storm hit, the disciples were afraid and asked if Jesus cared about their safety. As we continue reading it says, “He (Jesus) got up, rebuked the wind and said to the waves, ‘Quiet! Be still!’ Then the wind died down and it was completely calm. He said to the disciples, ‘Why are you so afraid? Do you still have no faith?’” Mark 4:39-40
No matter what, we should always be trusting in Him. Through the various storms in our lives we need to learn to always look to Jesus. Another example is when Paul was crossing the ocean and a giant storm came about. Acts 27:14 “Before very long, a wind of hurricane force called the Northeaster, swept down from the island.” Paul approaches the storm differently than the disciples by saying to the other people on the boat, “But now I urge you to keep up your courage, because not one of you will be lost; only the ship will be destroyed.” Acts 27:22 He came at the trial knowing that it was in God’s control. In other words, there is still hope when the spontaneous storms blow into our lives, for God is always reliable and will be faithful to give us courage.
Will you withstand the gusts of wind with Jesus on your side, or will you allow the wind win?
