Why We Praise Him In The Storm

Wednesday, August 5

Matthew 14:22-25 (ESV)

“Immediately he made the disciples get into the boat and go before him to the other side, while he dismissed the crowds. And after he had dismissed the crowds, he went up on the mountain by himself to pray. When evening came, he was there alone, but the boat by this time was a long way from the land, beaten by the waves, for the wind was against them. And in the fourth watch of the night he came to them, walking on the sea.”

Devotion

Storms of life happen to us all. Pastor Franklin described two types of storms. One is a storm of correction, allowed by God because He loves us, to bring us to repentance when we have not responded to His more gentle correction.

Another type of storm is used by God to move us toward perfection, or completion. In today’s passage, all the disciples were in a boat in obedience to Jesus’ command, yet they were being buffeted (repeatedly hit) by the waves, and the wind was against the direction they were trying to go. Where was Jesus?! Jesus was praying—likely for them. Did you know that Jesus prays for those who are in covenant with Him? (Hebrews 7:22-25)

Then Jesus came to them in the midst of the storm. Jesus promised, “I will be with you even to the end of the age.” (Matthew 28:20) “I will never leave you nor forsake you.” (Hebrews 13:5) After He came to them, Jesus brought them safely to the other side. Jesus is able to save completely those who come to God through Him.

After this storm, the disciples were taken through another storm for their perfection as Jesus was arrested and crucified. Jesus prayed for Peter, that Peter’s faith would not fail. (Luke 22:31-32) The storm may not make sense, but those who belong to Christ are promised, “The peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:7)

Jesus told Peter that after he had made it through this storm, he was to “strengthen your brothers.” Testify to the goodness of God, the holiness of God, and the power of God to those around you who are experiencing storms of their own.

Jesus prays for those who are His; He will come to them; and He will bring them through to the other side of the storm. Thank You, Jesus!

Today's Prayer

Dear Heavenly Father,

Blessed be Your Name. Please use the storms in my life to strengthen my faith and make my obedience more complete. Thank You that You are Jehovah Shammah, the God who is there. Please be with me in the storm. Please bring me through it according to Your goodness and mercy. Guard my heart and mind in Christ Jesus. May others be encouraged and come to faith in Jesus because of Your work in my life. In the Name of Jesus, I pray. Amen.

Apply It Today

The joy of the Lord is our strength (Nehemiah 8:10). That is why we should especially praise Him in the storm. Remember His faithfulness and His good character. There is no need to put on a false happy face, nor should we grieve as if we have no hope. We can confess that we are in the storm and should ask God whether it is for correction or perfection. We need not be afraid of what God has in store for our future. He gives grace.

Resources

• When life feels uncertain, overwhelming, or beyond our control, Jesus is the answer we need. Watch the message “Then Jesus Came” and be reminded that His presence changes everything.

• Let this song lead you into worship as you reflect on the goodness of Jesus. “Then Christ Came” by MercyMe reminds us that no darkness is too deep and no situation is beyond His reach.