StormsDuring a recent storm, leaves and limbs from every tree were are strewn across the yards in our neighborhood. It is amazing to behold the devastation delivered in minutes by the winds and waves of a common storm. The Bible speaks of individuals who were moved to fear by the awesome power of the storm. There was the storm called “Euroclydon” in Acts 27, during Paul’s voyage to Rome. Their fate was so sure, that the soldiers on board would have killed all of their prisoners lest one escape, but they were prevented by their commander. In Mark 4, there was a storm on the Sea of Galilee in which the disciples of Christ, seasoned fishermen, feared for their lives while their Master rested in perfect peace in the hinder part of the ship. The Bible says that the waves beat against their vessel and it was full of water. They came in terror to awaken the Master, who simply stood and spoke to the storm, “Peace, be still. And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm.” (Mark 4:39) So often I find myself, like the disciples, at the end of my resources, in waves of trouble that would conquer my soul. My vessel is filled with the circumstances of life that steal away my confidence and drown my faith. But I too know the Master, the Lord of the troubled seas, and what’s more, He knows me! I have often heard His words, “Peace, be still.” |