John 6: 16-21
What a sight! – “they see Jesus walking on the sea” ( John 6:19). That was something unexpected, and never seen before. Of course at that moment they had no idea who it was “and they were afraid”. They last saw Him when “he departed again into a mountain” ( vs. 15). After that they set sail for Capernaum (vs. 17). What happened next struck terror in their hearts – “the sea arose by reason of a great wind that blew” (vs. 18). Then, when they were three miles off shore they suddenly “saw Jesus walking on the sea” (vs. 19). Not recognizing him “they were afraid” (vs. 19). It’s no wonder! You just don’t expect to see something like that.
It wasn’t until He spoke and said, “It is I; be not afraid” (vs. 20) that “they willingly received him into the ship” (vs. 21). Recognizing his voice and hearing his words gave them assurance and they welcomed him into the ship. That was an expression of their faith, evidence of their trust in Him. Now notice what happened next – “and immediately the ship was at the land whither they went” (vs. 21). Not only did they reach land, they arrived exactly at the desired location. They had not been blown off-course.
I don’t know what fearful situation you are in today, but I do know that trusting the word of the Lord can bring peace into your heart. That’s the purpose for which John wrote (John 20:31). However, you need to remember that Christ didn’t force himself on the boat. And He won’t force Himself into your life. When He speaks you must willingly receive Him ( Rev. 3:20). That will afford you the pleasure of His power, protection, and provisions. I realize that there is no reason for you to think you will see his face or hear his voice, but He still speaks today. He does so through His word. Receive Him and be at peace. – HDS
David Stone
Lakeway Baptist Church
5801 FM 1960 E
Humble, TX. 77346
