The Invitation

The storm was getting more violent by the second. The little boat couldn’t handle it. It creaked and groaned. There was no way we could make it. We would sink and all of us would drown, for there was no land near us. Our master was asleep. No normal human being could sleep through a time like this. I mentally said farewells to my family as I tried to keep hold of the rail on the boat and not fall overboard. It was our fault we were on this boat. We had left behind everything and followed the man named Jesus. And now, we would die for it. I saw Philip wake Jesus. Jesus asked us why we were afraid and told us we had little faith. Why shouldn’t we be afraid? We were all terrified, except for Him, of course. Jesus stood up, held out His hand, and commanded the storm to stop. We watched Him doubtfully. Just as the last word rolled off His lips, there was an immense calm. The wind stopped blowing completely, and the water was still as if nothing had happened. We stood there speechless. Who was this man? . . . We all go through storms in our life. Be they little or small. Those storms can be any fear or any challenge. Most of us are like the disciples during it all. Scared of the change and having little faith. However, with God on our side, we don’t need to be afraid, because He is our stronghold in the storm (Psalm 27:1). If He can make the planets, the universe, and every little thing, I’m pretty sure He is in control. He loves us, and He is working all things for His good kingdom purposes (Romans 8:28-30). And, one day, when He returns, Jesus—the Creator—will ultimately calm the chaos of this world broken by sin (Revelation 21:1-5). We can “be strong and courageous” because God is our shelter in the storm (1 Chronicles 28:20). • Teah Wipf • What storms do you face in your life? How is Jesus helping you through them? • Read Hebrews 13:6. How can the truths in this verse help you in the midst of storms? Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be afraid, for I am your God. I will strengthen you; I will help you; I will hold on to you with my righteous right hand. Isaiah 41:10 (CSB)

Read Verses:

Genesis 1:27; Psalm 139:13-16; 2 Corinthians 5:17-21