Recently, I was humbled by the story of Jesus calming the storm on the Sea of Galilee.
I was humbled for the following reason: I’ve read the Bible through, cover to cover, many times. In various translations. Additionally, I’ve “camped out” in particular books and/or passages for months at a time. Finally, I’ve carefully studied and taught almost every book in the Canon.
Yet, each time I read the Bible, God shows me truth and principles I never before had seen!
Spurgeon wisely said,
“Nobody ever outgrows Scripture. The book widens and deepens with our years.”
Matthew, Mark and Luke all record this event. My spirit was arrested as I read through all three accounts and saw details and nuances each author recorded the other two didn’t.
There was so much that affected me. But here are just three:
- Mark records, “Jesus said to his disciples, ‘Let’s cross to the other side of the lake.’” – 4:35
- Biblical principle: Who led the disciples into the storm? Jesus! I think of Luke 4:1 where it says Jesus was “led by the Holy Spirit into the wilderness” to be tempted by Satan. I am reminded that faith is like a muscle. It only grows stronger when it is exercised. And sometimes – to borrow imagery from a weight room – Jesus “puts more weight on the bar” to strengthen our faith.
- Matthew records, “Suddenly, a fierce storm struck the lake…” – 8:24
- Biblical principle: Life gives us no warning for crises. We all know that a day could begin very normally – and then “suddenly” something happens that day that changes our lives either for a few days, or forever. So, it’s no wonder Jesus places us in circumstances that strengthen our faith. Sure, he could “leave us alone,” allowing our faith to become weak, soft, even atrophied. But, he loves us far too much to leave us unprepared for life’s unexpected suffering. This is what James, the half-brother of Jesus, meant when he wrote, “…when troubles of any kind come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy. For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. – 1:2-3
- 3) Mark records, “Suddenly, the wind stopped and there was great calm.” – 4:39
- Biblical principle: Just as “sudden” as our crisis, so as sudden is Jesus’ presence and power. He looked at his terrified disciples and said lovingly, “Why were you afraid?” The disciples lived with Jesus, but they underestimated him. I think of David’s prayer, “Though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will not be afraid. For you are with me.” – Psalm 23:4
Oh, there’s so much more treasure in this story to mine! But, may this bring you peace and hope and joy today. And the days to come.
Nick