Don't Be Afraid, It is Jesus!
Rev. Enoch Thompson | April 8, 2024 | John 6:16-21
KEY VERSE:
But he said to them, "It is I; don't be afraid." John 6:20 (NIV)
MESSAGE:
The journey of life has its way of frightening us, and those instances come uninvited and unannounced. The disciples were surprised by the strong winds and the rising waves that accompanied it. It was dark, and they must have feared for their lives. Most importantly the Lord was not in their company. When three to three and a half miles into the journey they saw the Lord approaching their boat, walking on the water, they were terrified, thinking another danger was visiting them. Then the words of the Lord, "It is I; don't be afraid."
How we need the calm assuring words of Christ, "It is I; don't be afraid." For our individual troubled heart may we hear His soothing tones, "It is I; don't be afraid." For families under stress from past and passing trials may faith tune our hearts to hear Him say, "It is I; don't be afraid.” May the words of the hymn be true to you now and always:
Sometimes a light surprises
The Christian while he sings;
It is the Lord, who rises with
Healing in His wings:
When comforts are declining,
He grants the soul again
A season of clear shining,
To cheer it after rain.
FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE:
Are there things that frighten you in life? Lift the eyes of faith to Jesus in the midst of the storm. Hear His voice in all you have learnt of Him and brace yourself to march on courageously. He says, "It is I; don't be afraid."
PRAYER:
Dear Lord Jesus, thank you for your reassuring words that ring over the waters of time to my soul. How I am frightened by the things all around me. But if only I could hear your strong gentle calming voice, I can rest assured that you are with me. Speak Lord into every troubled believing heart and let your comfort reign. For your dear Name’s sake, Amen.
THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING.
SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!!
DAILY word study: AFRAID The Greek word translated as "afraid" in John 6:20 is "φοβέω" (phobeo), derived from "φόβος" (phobos), which denotes fear, dread, or reverence. In this context, it signifies the disciples' reaction of fear or alarm upon seeing Jesus walking on water amidst the storm.
This word is used throughout the New Testament to describe various forms of fear, whether it be fear of danger, fear of authority, or fear of the unknown. In this instance, the disciples' fear likely stemmed from the unexpected sight of Jesus defying the laws of nature by walking on water, combined with the tumultuous conditions of the storm.
Despite their fear, Jesus reassures them with His presence and words, demonstrating His power over the natural elements and His ability to instil peace amidst chaos. This incident underscores the importance of trust and faith in Jesus, even in the face of fear and uncertainty.
Reflections:
How does our understanding of Jesus' sovereignty and presence impact the way we respond to fearful situations in our own lives? How can we cultivate a deeper sense of trust and reliance on Jesus, even when faced with storms of uncertainty?
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