Matthew 8:24

New International Version

Suddenly a furious storm came up on the lake, so that the waves swept over the boat. But Jesus was sleeping.

For Encouragement

His humanity showed clearly. The Son of God was tired and asleep. The relentless storm—howling winds and rocking waves—could not wake Him. Jesus was on a mission. The eastern shore of the lake held a tremendous task for Him after all the healing and miracles on the west side (Matt. 8:23-27). Exhausted, Jesus went to the stern and collapsed on a pillow (Mk. 4:38). Suddenly, the storm intensified, and waves swamped the boat.

Lying 690 feet below sea level, the Sea of Galilee faces fierce storms. To the north, Mount Hermon rises above it. The sea is notorious for violent tempests, whipped up when strong winds tunnel through the valley’s narrow gorges. His disciples, mostly fishermen, knew the sea’s instability. Yet, when this storm struck, fear gripped them for their lives.

Storms are a constant part of life. It’s not if a storm hits, but when. When storms surprise us, they disrupt lives, upend plans, and can bring sorrow to homes. These storms are rude awakenings—nothing truly prepares us for them. In such times, we often need help, often supernatural, as when the disciples needed Jesus most. But where was He? Did He care, as the disciples asked after waking Him (Mk. 4:28)? After all, He brought them into this storm, so fix it, Jesus (Matt. 8:25)!

Such are the moments He reveals His glory—when we get caught in the very heart of the storm, powerless to calm it. Jesus knew the storm would strike when He set out on the journey, yet He slept. Nothing around Him escaped His attention. The disciples’ fear did not shake Him, nor did the storm intimidate Him. He who created the storm, the winds, and the waves holds all authority. His creation cannot overrule Him. At His command, the raging sea, howling winds, and crashing waves fell silent—peace soothing the hearts of his storm-tossed disciples (26).

Jesus still commands the storms that threaten your life to be still. The destroyer who churns the winds and waves to create storms flees when the Savior enters your situation. As you pass through life’s tempest and the valley of the shadow of death, remember you are not alone. Christ is with you and will never leave or forsake you. You are a pearl in His crown, much beloved. Why fear any foe or threat as you walk with the Captain of your soul, knowing His promise in Isaiah 43:1-2? O, you of little faith (Matt. 8:26).

What storm has broken into your life and threatens to overwhelm you? Hear the Master calm the storm: “Peace, be still.”

Pray with Me

I now know you, whom the winds and sea obey—my Creator and Redeemer. Forgive me when I react in fear as storms strike and forget your presence and promises. Strengthen my faith, Lord. Help me rest through life’s storms, assured you are at the helm as Captain of my life in Christ Jesus. Amen.

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