Encounter #24:

“Be of good cheer...Fear not”

Read: Mark: 6:45-56

After feeding the multitudes, Jesus told His disciples to go to Bethsaida. Jesus sent the people away and went up into a mountain to pray all night. The apostles were on the Sea of Galilee and Jesus was in the mountain watching and praying. A storm arose on the Sea and the apostles were rowing and struggling against the wind. They were distressed and tormented. They were half way across the Sea which is about 4 miles out and it was between 3AM and 6AM.

After rowing for several hours the apostles see Jesus coming towards them walking on the water! It seemed as if He would pass them by. They were fearful but Jesus said “Be of good cheer. It is I. Be not afraid.” Matthew 14:22ff records Peter's reaction. He wanted to walk on the water with Jesus. Jesus told him to come. And Peter walked on the water with Jesus. However, Peter began to sink. Jesus took him by the hand and told him he had a little faith and not to doubt. Notice Jesus had Peter by the hand when He spoke to him. Jesus isn't far away. He got you by the hand. You are in good hands. They both got back in the boat and the storm stopped and immediately they were on the shore. Another miracle!

What lessons can we learn from this adventure? Jesus did not let Peter drown, nor the apostles to perish. Jesus knows the storms you are going through. He is right with you. Don't fear nor have little faith. Don't doubt Jesus. Be of good cheer. He is the Great I Am. Don't allow your heart to be hardened. Jesus is the Bread of Life. He knows your needs.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, help me to trust in Your Word and to realize Your Son Jesus is with me to help, encourage, comfort and protect me. Thank you for the faith to trust you, no matter what. In Jesus' Name. Amen.

Application: As you step out in faith and “walk on water” trust Jesus to be with you. He will meet your every need. You will make it to the other side.

Encounter Jesus: Realize Jesus said He would never leave you, nor forsake you. He is with you in the storm and will bring you through. Receive His presence, His touch and His provision. Don't fear but have faith in Him. He has you by the hand. Receive His healing, deliverance and provision.