As we finish off another tough year, we have the certainty that we are not alone. We have navigated uncharted waters, but we can be sure that Jesus is in our boat, just like He was in the boat with the original disciples. Although we think He may be asleep and not doing anything, He is still in control, working all things for our good. Just like the disciples reached their destination, so will we, regardless of how great the storm.
One day Jesus said to his disciples, “Let’s get in a boat and go across to the other side of the lake.” So, they set sail, and soon Jesus fell asleep. But a fierce wind arose and became a violent squall that threatened to swamp their boat. Alarmed, the disciples woke Jesus up and said, “Master, Master, we’re sinking! Don’t you care that we’re going to drown?” With great authority Jesus rebuked the howling wind and surging waves, and instantly they became calm. Then Jesus said to them, “Why are you fearful? Have you lost your faith in me?” - Luke 8:22
Jesus wanted to give them the chance to refocus their faith onto His character and His goodness. They thought and believed the worst and He was physically with them. How much more tempting is it for us to believe lies, especially if we are relying on what we see in the natural.
Right after Jesus and the disciples reached the other side of the lake, they are confronted by a demoniac whom Jesus delivers and is used to reach those in his sphere of influence.
Return home and tell all the great things God has done for you.” So, the man went away, proclaiming throughout the whole city what great things Jesus had done for him. - Luke 8:39
The body of Christ (and I don’t mean a church) is being set up for some exciting things in 2022! As we say good bye to 2021, may we realign our faith and adjust where we have gotten off track, pick ourselves back up and grab onto the hand of Jesus. Where bad attitudes, unhealthy habits, wrong beliefs about ourselves and God have taken us off course, He is just a prayer away.
I pondered the direction of my life, and I turned to follow your laws. I will hurry, without delay, to obey your commands. - Psalm 119:59-60
He promises He will forgive us when we turn to Him. He is so faithful!
So repent [change your inner self—your old way of thinking, regret past sins] and return [to God—seek His purpose for your life], so that your sins may be wiped away [blotted out, completely erased], so that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord [restoring you like a cool wind on a hot day] - Acts 3:19