Strong Winds of Life

But he (Jesus) said to them, “It is I; don’t be afraid.”  John 6:20

Life seems to be going along well and then wham….difficulties enter your life.  Some of the difficulties we face are consequences due to choices we have made.  At other times, the difficulties we face are quite possibly trials and testing filtered through the hands of our Sovereign God.  Whether we like it or not, we will encounter strong winds of life as we travel toward our Heavenly Home. 

We notice in John 6:16-21 that the disciples encountered strong winds as they were crossing the Sea of Galilee to get to Capernaum.  When evening came, his disciples went down to the lake, where they got into a boat and set off across the lake for Capernaum.  By now it was dark, and Jesus had not yet joined them – John 6:16-17.   Scripture tells us it was evening time and darkness shrouded the men when the strong winds started to rock the boat.  A strong wind was blowing and the waters grew rough – John 6:18.  A sense of darkness seems to shroud our spirit when we encounter the strong winds of life.  What are the strong winds you are currently facing?  Are the strong winds you are facing relational issues, an illness, financial difficulties, job difficulties, etc.

John 6:19 reveals that the disciples were startled to see Jesus approaching them walking on water.  When they had rowed about three or four miles, they saw Jesus approaching the boat, walking on the water; and they were frightened.  We will face spiritual and emotional storms.  Invite Jesus into your storm.  Often we will turn to others or strive on our own to improve our situation.  Trust in Jesus.  He may not remove the storm from your life but He will walk with you through the storm.  God will use our storms to mold us into the person he intends for us to be, if we surrender to Him.  We will not stay in the storm; we will reach the other side – our destination.  John 6:21 – Then they were willing to take him into the boat, and immediately the boat reached the shore where they were heading. 

Hebrew 12:2 tells us to fix our eyes on Jesus.  Allow Him to increase your faith as the strong winds of life blow around you.  Fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith….  Jesus provides us with much comfort and guidance when we are in a storm, if we seek Him.  Psalm 73:23-24 – Yet I am always with you; you hold me by my right hand.  You guide me with your counsel, and afterward you will take me into glory.  We can place our confidence in God presence and guidance.  Cling to Jesus, He is our hope. 

When you encounter the strong winds of life, allow God’s Word to speak to you, to soothe your spirit.  God provides us with comfort, guidance, and hope through His Word.  Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path – Psalm 119:105.  We must never neglect spending time in God’s Word and spending time in prayer. 

Hold on to the promise in God’s Word that during the strong winds of life He is with us and will provide the strength that we need.  So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand – Isaiah 41:10.

Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for the promises You give us in Your Word.  Help us to become more Christ-like as we travel through the strong winds of life.  Teach us spiritual truths and lessons which You desire us to learn.  Lead us, guide us, and comfort us, dear LORD.  In Jesus Precious Name I Pray…..Amen.