Matthew 14:22-34

None of us enjoy suffering. But in the hands of our loving and almighty God, trials can become the tools He uses to bring about His will in our life and to shape us into the people He created us to be.

In our own strength, we lack sufficient resources and abilities to meet life’s challenges. So God provides just what we need. The most important thing He gives us is an awareness of His presence. At first the disciples thought they were alone in a terrifying storm. When they initially spotted Jesus, their fear increased because they thought He was a ghost. But as they recognized Him, their fright changed to relief and hope. During a crisis, we may not sense God’s presence, but He has promised always to be with us (Deut. 31:6). The assurance that He will never leave provides immediate comfort, an infusion of courage, and a sense of confidence that helps us to endure.

Another promise God makes is that He’ll provide a path through the trial. The disciples must have wondered how long the gale would last and whether they’d make it safely to shore. Like us, they probably wanted it all to end yesterday. But had they somehow avoided this storm, they would have missed the demonstration of Jesus’ power over the sea and wind. This frightening situation was transformed into a revelation of the Savior’s divine nature. God wants to reveal His power through our trials as well.

Ask the Lord to let you experience His abiding presence in the midst of your trouble. He will provide strength to endure and wisdom to identify the way through your storm.