In Matthew, chapter 14, we find Matthew’s account of the feeding of the multitude. Upon the close of that miraculous day, he describes how that Jesus instructed His disciples to get into a ship and go to the other side of the Sea of Galilee. While they departed Jesus went up into the mountain to pray. As the disciples were in the midst of the sea a storm arose. The wind now blowing against them and their vessel being no match for the tempestuous sea, fear gripped their hearts, as it seemed all hope was lost. However, Jesus had His eyes on them, and in the dark hours where night turns to morning, Jesus came walking upon the water. The disciples, fearing it was a spirit, cried out. Verse 27 records the response of Jesus to their cries of despair.
“But straightway Jesus spake unto them, saying, Be of good cheer; it is I; be not afraid” (Matthew 14:27).
In life there are a multitude of storms that arise. The world is in what seems like an unending storm right now. Fear has taken the heart of so many. For a number of people joy has been replaced with sadness. Easy and carefree living has been turned to challenges and obstacles like has never been seen before. Nevertheless, we must hold fast to the words of Christ, “Be of good cheer; it is I; be not afraid.” Did you noticed how Jesus had instructed the disciples to go to the other side? It was never a question to Him whether they would make it or not. He had not removed His eyes from them, and when the storm arose, He was on the scene.
Psalm 139:12 reads, “Yea, the darkness hideth not from thee; but the night shineth as the day: the darkness and the light are both alike to thee.”
God knows right where you are and what you are facing. It may seem as if the night is too dark and that hope is all but gone. Just remember His word is true and that He never fails. Let Him step into your life and say “peace, be still” and as the wind and sea obeyed His command in Mark chapter 4, verse 39, the storms of life obey Him today.
“Fear thou not; for I am with thee,” says Isaiah 41:10, “be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.”
What a mighty God, and what a mighty promise. Fear thou not! I pray that you will find real peace in the saving power of God. Just remember Psalm 30:5: “… weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning.”