By Ann Elaine Broughton

“But Jesus immediately said to them: Take courage! It is I. Don’t be afraid” (Matthew 14:27 NIV).

When was the last time you were afraid? What did you do? Did you pray? I am tremendously afraid of tornadoes so this summer has been difficult for me as it seems there were tornadoes spotted all around our area. When I was a child a tornado went really close to North Baltimore. We had gone to my grandmother’s house because they had a basement. Mom said that we all stood on her porch and watched it as it left the area. I must have been around two at the time and really don’t remember the event, but to this day when I am stressed I will dream a tornado is coming. It impacted me that much. I have to admit when I hear that a tornado watch is in effect or a warning is nearby I pray really hard. I think about the above verse and try not to be afraid as I think of the story of the disciples being tossed about on a boat in the middle of the night by very strong winds.

You see Jesus spoke the above words to his disciples who were out in a boat being buffeted by strong winds for most of the night. He walked out on the water towards the boat. When they saw him they were afraid. He told them to take courage. Peter asked Jesus, “If it is you tell me to come to you.” Jesus told Peter to come and Peter got down out of the

boat and walked on the water, but his fear overcame him as he looked at the huge waves. Then he started to sink. “Lord, save me!” he cried” (Matthew 12:30 NIV). Then Jesus immediately took his hand and caught him. When they climbed into the boat the wind calmed down.

Storms come in our lives that can make us sink down into the depths, but as Christians we have hope. Jesus is always there to grab your hand and lift you out of your depression or sadness or loss of hope.

When you are afraid remember this story and cry out to the Lord for help. He will never fail you and will lift up your weary spirit and give you peace. He calmed the storm for the disciples, and he can calm your spirit in the same manner. The key to handling life’s storms is keeping your eyes on Jesus and not the storm. Peter let his gaze wander to the huge waves around him, and he lost sight of Jesus. That is when he went under. Don’t let that happen to you. Keep your eyes on the Lord and he will lift you up.

Dear Lord,

I know that storms will come in my life. Help me not to lose sight of your love for me so that I won’t sink down into despair. I know that you will lift me up and give me the peace I need. Thank you for your constant love for me. Help me not to be afraid but to have faith that you will be with me through all of life’s troubles.

In Jesus’ name,

Amen