Friday, July 15, 2011

Matthew 14:22–25, 28–29

"Immediately after this, Jesus insisted that his disciples get back into the boat and cross to the other side of the lake, while he sent the people home. After sending them home, he went up into the hills by himself to pray. Night fell while he was there alone.
"Meanwhile, the disciples were in trouble far away from land, for a strong wind had risen, and they were fighting heavy waves. About three o'clock in the morning Jesus came toward them, walking on the water. …
"Then Peter called to him, 'Lord, if it's really you, tell me to come to you, walking on the water.'
"'Yes, come,' Jesus said. So Peter went over the side of the boat and walked on the water toward Jesus."
 
 
Jesus sent the disciples away—into a storm. For a time, he left them alone to battle the fierce storm without him. While they struggled, Jesus was praying. Then he came to them, walking on water. He calmly walked on the very water that was causing so much trouble and fear for his loved ones. Remember this: When you battle a storm, Jesus is praying for you. Then Jesus comes to you on the choppy waves of your distress. And, if you keep your eyes on Jesus, as Peter did, you too can walk on the waves of your storm.

Thursday, July 14, 2011

Proverbs 9:10

"Fear of the LORD is the foundation of wisdom.
 Knowledge of the Holy One results in good judgment."
 
 
Wisdom begins with God. It begins when we recognize how great God is, when we acknowledge that he is holy and in control—and we are not. Wisdom begins when we realize that we need God to show us the way because we cannot find it ourselves.

Wednesday, July 13, 2011

Matthew 14:32–33

"When they climbed back into the boat, the wind stopped. Then the disciples worshiped him. 'You really are the Son of God!' they exclaimed.'"
 
The disciples worshiped Jesus as the Son of God—and he allowed it, for that is who he is. That is what his miracles revealed; that is why he performed them. He proved that he had control over something only God can control: weather conditions. Today, remember that the Jesus who lives in you is the one who rules the universe. Worship him, the Son of God. Put your full trust in him.