Daily Manna with FADA JACOB-NERI OSE FOCUS AND GAZE ON JESUS Does the Lord Jesus ever seem distant when trials or adversity come your way? It was at Jesus initiative that the disciples sailed across the lake, only to find themselves in a life-threatening storm (Mark 6:45-52). Although they were experienced fishermen, they feared for their lives. The Lake of Galilee was known for its sudden storms whipped up suddenly by strong winds which swept down from the nearby mountains. The disciples must have cried out for help when they recognized that their boat was about to be capsized by the threatening waves. Jesus always intercedes for us Although Jesus was not physically with them in the boat, he nonetheless had been keeping vigilant watch for them in earnest prayer on the distant shore. When Jesus perceived their trouble he came to them walking on the sea and startled them with his sudden appearance. The disciples were terrified rather than joyful when they saw Jesus presence on the water. They thought a ghost had appeared to seal their doom. At first, they could not believe it was really the Lord who was coming to help them until they heard his reassuring voice - I am here for you and ready to help you - let your heart be filled with courage - and do not allow any fear or doubt to hold you back from trusting in me. Jesus calmed their fears, and he calmed the threatening waves and storm as well. Facing fear and failure with faith in Gods help This dramatic incident on the sea of Galilee revealed Peters character more fully than others. Here we see Peters impulsive tendency to act or speak quickly without thinking through what he was about to do. Peter often failed and came to grief as a result of his impulsive response to challenging circumstances (such a cutting off the ear of a servant who came to arrest Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemani, or Peter promising Jesus that he would never deny him shortly before his betrayal at the high priests courtyard). When Peter saw Jesus walking on the water, he took a leap of faith only to cave in out of fear and doubt. He failed to keep his eyes on Jesus and to rely on the strength which God readily hands to those who trust in him. In Peters moment of fear and failure, he fortunately did not give into despair or hopelessness. When his faith began to sink, Peter clutched at Jesus hand and held firmly. Whatever weakness Peter had, he was not a quitter. Every time Peter fell, he rose again. His failures only made him draw closer to his Lord, and love him more humbly and deeply, and with greater gratitude and trust in his mercy and help. Lord Jesus, help me to trust you always and in all circumstances and to never doubt your presence and power to help me. In my moments of doubt and weakness, may I cling to you as Peter did. Strengthen my faith that I may walk confidently in the path you have chosen for me. Amen . GOOD MORNING FRIENDS AND HAVE A PLEASANT SUNDAY CELEBRATION! It is well with you and your family. Amen.
Posted on: Sun, 10 Aug 2014 07:36:04 +0000
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