He's With Us in the Storm (Do Not Fear or Be Dismayed - Part 2)
In my previous blog, "God of Promises (Do Not Fear or Be Dismayed - Part 1)" Click button at the bottom to read part 1. I shared some childhood memories. I’m reminded of the story where Jesus’ disciples find themselves in a life-threatening storm on the Sea of Galilee.
After feeding the five thousand, Jesus sends His disciples across the sea to Carpernaum. A storm hits, and they fight to keep the boat from capsizing. They row through the night, and between 3:00 and 6:00 a.m., they see someone walking on the water. Terrified, they think it’s a ghost (Matthew 14:26). Jesus reassures them with these words: “Take heart; it is I. Do not be afraid” (Matthew 14:27, Mark 6:50).
Matthew's account highlights Peter’s unique response. He calls out, “Lord, if it is you, command me to come to you on the water.” Jesus replies, “Come.” Peter steps out of the boat and walks on the water. But when he notices the wind, he begins to sink, crying out, “Lord, save me.” Immediately, Jesus reaches out and saves him, asking, “O you of little faith, why did you doubt?” (Matthew 14:28-33).
This passage offers much to reflect on, but today I want to focus on three key areas:
1. Jesus' response to His disciples.
2. Did the storm stop when Peter stepped out of the boat?
3. Peter's response when he begins to sink.
Jesus’s Response to His Disciples
Jesus says, “Take heart”—be courageous and press forward, even when afraid. Why? Because “It is I”—Jesus, the Son of God, the Messiah, Almighty and All-Powerful. We can be courageous and unafraid because of who Jesus is. Our faith can rest fully in Him.
Did the Storm Stop When Peter Stepped Out of the Boat?
No, the storm didn’t stop when Peter stepped out. As he lost focus and began to doubt, he started to sink. Jesus didn’t remove the storm because it was part of their training. The storm was meant to teach them to depend fully on Him. Jesus used this challenge to strengthen their faith—just as every disciple of Jesus needs this same mindset.
Peter’s Response
As soon as Peter starts to sink, he calls out, “Lord, save me” (Matthew 14:30). Peter doesn’t hesitate. He immediately turns to Jesus, the source of his salvation. Jesus steps in and rescues him.
As we work through this passage, we see that Jesus' call to His disciples is to not just be unafraid, but to put their faith and trust in Him and Him alone. The storm didn’t stop, but Jesus remained with them, showing that trials are being used to produce steadfastness (James 1:2-4), and are often not removed but used to build our faith and dependence on Him. Peter’s response is a reminder that when we falter, we don’t need to hesitate—immediately call upon Jesus. In the midst of life's storms, we are called to keep our focus on Him, knowing He is with us, ready to save and strengthen us.
Reflection
Where in your life are you not fully depending on the Lord?
Are you currently in a storm, or do you know someone who is?
How are you responding to your own or others' storms?
Who or what are you turning to for help and salvation?
Written By: Lee Miles
