JESUS WALKS ON WATER

Thursday, September 15th 2016

John 6:16-21

key verse: 20

Fear had seized the disciples, but at the sight of Jesus, they were calmed. They took Him into the boat and immediately it touched land. With Jesus, we are not frightened by the storm. In Jesus, we can be victorious in all circumstances.

1. Alone in the boat

Jesus stayed on land for a bit, while the disciples left in a boat. Darkness had fallen, and the atmosphere was spooky. A storm suddenly sprang up, and the disciples were without their master. They were together in the boat, but each man thought only of saving himself. They didn't think of each other, and they didn't know how to pray either. They rowed to exhaustion. Then, fear gripped them and they imagined a ghost was coming for them. Fear makes a man blind and weak. 

2. Alone on the water

Jesus was walking on the sea and approached the boat. His late arrival was a good way to test the disciples' faith. They cried out in fear, but Jesus reassured them, saying, "It is I. Do not be afraid". When we cross stormy waters, Jesus' protective gaze surrounds us. We must listen for his gentle voice which says "It is I". 

"Do not be afraid" means "where is your faith?" In fact, recognizing Jesus' power is true consolation for the fearful soul. Therefore, fix your eyes on Him. 

Prayer: Lord, when I am alone, help me to pray in order ot be comforted by you. You are always with me, I will fear nothing. You are the mighty one who walks on water.

Bottom line: strong Jesus is near. Do not be afraid.