As night fell, the boat was in the middle of the lake and Jesus was alone on land. The wind was against the disciples and He could see that they were straining at the oars, trying to make headway. When it was almost morning, Jesus came to them and said at once, “Don’t yield to fear. Have courage. It’s really me—I Am!” (Mark 6:47-50;TPT).
The wind of adversity is part of the fallen human condition. So don’t be surprised or tempted to quit when you encounter a fiery ordeal. Instead, take courage! God is an ever-present help in time of need.
Jesus did predict that men’s hearts would fail them because of fear. But in the midst of all the evils, difficulties, uncertainty and pressures that our world is currently experiencing, God offers us a fresh start; a new opportunity to push the reset button and turn our eyes to Him. He knows what to do when nobody else does.
If you’re dealing with any of oppression or depression, turn your eyes to the One who has His eyes on you, even in the darkest situations.
And if you have grown weary or dull or feel like you are straining at the oars, remember this: Jesus said to have courage. So reach out and take it. When you trade heaviness or sorrow for a garment of praise, you will no doubt receive renewal and fresh grace and anointing to carry on.
