Devotionals

Fear and Faith Can't Live Together

by Denise Ferrell
07/28/15
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"But straightway Jesus spake unto them, saying, Be of good cheer; it is I; be not afraid."  (Matthew 14:27 / KJV) 

Exhausted from rowing against the violent winds and waves of the storm, the disciples were physically spent.  When Jesus came to them on the lake, they didn't recognize Him.

In the storms of our lives -- sickness, death of loved ones, job loss, divorce, financial problems -- we often don't recognize Jesus when He comes to our aid.  He may not come as soon as we think He should.  We may not be looking for Him.  But Jesus knows when we need Him most.

In the case of the disciples, Jesus waited until the boat was in the worst possible position, far from land, and they had no hope.  In this instance, He could test their faith.  They had no human means of resolving this problem.  Jesus was back on the mountain, praying, so they were not looking for Him.  When they saw Him, they thought He was a ghost because they were in a state of fear instead of faith.  Fear and faith cannot reside together simultaneously anymore than darkness and light.

Lord, fear comes naturally to us.  Please help us keep our eyes on You, in faith, and to look for you in the midst of our storms.  In Jesus name, Amen.