I read in a recent global survey about how fear has become such a normal part of life that we barely notice how it shapes what we think and how we live. How often do we, as followers of Jesus, allow fear to dominate our everyday lives?
In Mark 4, the disciples suddenly find themselves caught in a violent storm while crossing the Sea of Galilee. Even though several of them were experienced fishermen, they were unable to handle it. The boat was about to capsize, and they feared for their lives. Meanwhile, Jesus was asleep in the stern. In their desperation they woke Him up and cried out, “Teacher, do you not care that we are perishing?”
Jesus got up, rebuked the wind, and within moments the sea was calmed as if nothing had happened. Then He asked them:
“Why are you so afraid? Have you still no faith?” (Mark 4:40)
Jesus wasn’t dismissing their fear. He knew they were in real danger. The issue was not about the greatness of their problem, but whether they knew of the far surpassing greatness of their Master.
As it was with the disciples, we often end up fixating on the life storms coming at us rather than trusting the Lord who is with us. We can be sure of this because Jesus gave up His life to save us. His death, resurrection, and present rule in heaven, assure us that even in life’s fiercest storms, we are never abandoned and never beyond His care.
What fear is keeping you from trusting in His presence today?
This devotion is sent weekly to staff during school terms. It has been lightly edited for a general audience.
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