Encounter #17:

Going Over Takes Faith

Read: Mark 4:35-41

Jesus said He and His disciples were going to pass over to the other side of the Sea of Galilee. Other little boats followed them. While they were passing over a great storm arose. The boat was filling up with water. Jesus was fast asleep in the boat. The disciples were fearful. They rebuked Jesus for not caring for them. They were fearing that they were going to die. They went to Jesus to wake Him up. Jesus awoke. He rebuked the wind. It stopped. He spoke to the waves and they settled down. All were safe and sound. They made it to the other side.

This event may sound familiar. Are there storms in your life? Storms of debt, sickness, fear, anger, addictions and hopelessness? Don't give up! Jesus is not asleep on the job. He knows what you are experiencing.

Jesus told His disciples they were going over to the other side, and they did. What Jesus says happens. He does not lie. What has He promised to you? Use your faith and trust Him to come through for you. The disciples were fearing that they were going to perish in the storm. Jesus is not ignorant nor indifferent about the trials, testings, temptations and tribulations you may be experiencing. His timing is always right. He is always on time. Jesus rebuked the wind, then He rebuked the disciples! Where was their faith? Jesus told the sea to be peaceful and to be still. Don't let fear overtake your faith. The disciples experienced the power of Jesus to calm the storm. Receive His peace.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, forgive me for doubting You and Your Word. You do not lie. You keep Your promises. Help me to trust You no matter what I am going through. I stand on Your promises. In Jesus' Name. Amen.

Application: No matter what storm you are going through, trust Jesus to bring you through it. He will bring you to the other side. Put you faith in Him. Pray for someone else who is experiencing a storm. Watch God answer. Fear is a liar. God's perfect love cast out fear (1John 4:18). You are no longer a slave to fear (Romans 8:15). You're a child of God.

Encounter Jesus: Trust Jesus Who loves you and calms the storms now.