I have read the story of Jesus calming the storm hundreds of times. Yesterday He pointed something out to me that really encouraged me.
When the storms of life come, it is not uncommon to have that "Jesus is asleep in the back of the boat feeling". It has certainly been my truth several times this past year.
When I was reading Luke 8:22-25; we read that the disciples who were experienced with boating and rough seas. They knew that they were in great danger. I have always read the passage and only really noticed that Jesus was disappointed in their fear and lack of faith in the midst of the storm. While this truth is indeed a big deal, there is another truth His Spirit pointed out to me yesterday which deeply encouraged me.
It took only a few words spoken by Jesus to bring the blustery winds and crazy waves to become calm. The point is this: God's word is powerful- His whole word. While nothing in our messy life changes, His Word has the power to calm our stormy emotions and clear our minds so we can see more clearly. His Word speaks peace to our circumstance. He reminds us over and over that He is bigger and more powerful then the storm you find yourself in today. It is not even so much the exact passage you read that accomplishes this but rather the mystery of the power of God's word- The Bible. His Word is alive and as we read it and obey it, light seeps into the dark places-the despairing places of our soul.
This has and is my story. As I read His word and write out passages, He comforts me and brings me hope- regardless of the size of the waves that are sometimes frightening. I have never had panic attacks until this year. I thought I was having a heart attack. Watching our son was too much- week after terrible week- but God's word gives me hope and He speaks peace.
May He do that for you as well.