JANUARY 30, 2024
Topic: THE DISCIPLES AND MANIFESTATION OF GOD’S PRESENCE
Text: Matt. 14:22-27
Memory Verse: Matt. 14: 27 – “Take courage! It is I. Don’t be afraid.”
Have you ever been afraid of water? Water can be a scary thing. Have you ever noticed that water seems to be associated with the most severe storms? If you have ever been on a lake or the ocean during a severe storm, then you know how scary water can be. In the ancient world, the sea was associated with the god of chaos. They believed that from the beginning of time the amorphous, destructive, unpredictable power of chaos was battling against all that was good, right, and orderly, trying to tear it apart.
In our text for today, we find the disciples in a severe storm, which caused a lot of chaos. The text begins in Matthew 14:22 and we find the disciples all alone, at night, in a boat, in the middle of the storm. Remember, in their ancient minds, this is synonymous with the god of chaos wreaking havoc around them. They are in a spiritual battle here. Chaos seems to be winning.
Amid the chaos, Jesus Christ manifested Himself and said, “Take courage! It is I.
Don’t be afraid.” (Matthew 14:27) In the time of chaos and confusion, Jesus came to their rescue and stepped in to stop the chaos. Tom Constable says, “Fear is unwarranted where Jesus is present.” As you step out today, trust the Lord to step into your chaos and bring comfort and calm. Jesus walked on water, Peter walked on water, and it is time for you to walk on the waters of your life. Peace is not found in the absence of the storm but in the presence of Jesus.
Prayer: Our Father, we thank you because you do not save us from the storm, you save us in the storm. Help us to always turn to you and trust you at all times.