The storms of life, those times when we feel alone and helpless to battle our circumstances, toss our faith around don't they?  They can cause us to experience escalating fear.  Scriptures tell us the disciples experienced fear in the storms, too.  And when the disciples saw him walking on the sea, they were troubled, saying, "It is a spirit; and they cried out for fear."  But straightway Jesus spoke unto them, saying, "Be of good cheer; it is I; be not afraid"  (Matthew 14:26-27).  What made fear arise in the disciples?

The disciples were pretty confident when they were with Jesus, but this time Jesus had sent them on ahead of him.  It was in the absence of Christ the disciples grew fearful.  Our storms may be a part of God's plan for us.  God desires to strengthen our faith and he does that in stages.  Remember how Jesus was in the boat, with the disciples, sleeping during one of the storms and all they had to do was awaken him?  This time Jesus was nowhere in sight when the storm hit.  Christ removed himself for awhile to see how they handled their faith.  God had a purpose; the disciples were to cross the lake and Jesus would meet them there.  Sometimes, God allows the storms to come into our lives to see if we are going to be obedient.  God already knows the answer, but we need to reveal it to ourselves.  We never know the real strength and resolve within us until after the storm.  

Our storms may intensify without prayerful intercession.  Although the Bible tells us Jesus went to pray for the disciples, it does not mention the disciples took time to pray for their trip.  Prayer gives us direction and brings inner strength.  Always take time to pray for God's will and the power of the Spirit to lead you each day.  Then, you will be ready for the storms when they hit.

Today's Reading:  Matthew 14:22-33