Standing Firm in Adversity
And the same day, when the even was come, he saith unto them, Let us pass over unto the other side. And when they had sent away the multitude, they took him even as he was in the ship. And there were also with him other little ships. And there arose a great storm of wind, and the waves beat into the ship, so that it was now full. And he was in the hinder part of the ship, asleep on a pillow: and they awake him, and say unto him, Master, carest thou not that we perish? And he arose, and rebuked the wind, and said unto the sea, Peace, be still. And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm. And he said unto them, Why are ye so fearful? how is it that ye have no faith? And they feared exceedingly, and said one to another, What manner of man is this, that even the wind and the sea obey him? (Mark 4:35-41)
Thought For Today:
I cannot understand why some people, when facing adversity, run away from the church while others, facing the same trials, remain steadfast. As Christians—those who say we know Jesus—should we not also know how to stand firm in difficult times?
I love today’s Scripture passage because it illustrates this truth so powerfully. The apostles feared they would perish in the storm, yet Jesus was not troubled at all. He was in the back of the boat, asleep on a pillow. To me, this is a reminder that we should not be shaken by the storms of life, because He gives rest to those He loves.
Even after witnessing all that Jesus had done, the apostles were still afraid. They also failed to recognize that Jesus was in the same boat with them, completely untroubled by what was happening around them. When they woke Him, He asked why they were so fearful and why they lacked faith.
Friend, you are not in this boat of life alone. Jesus promised that He would never leave us nor forsake us, so why should we fear? He is with us.
So let me encourage you: do not leave the church because of fear or any other trial. Jesus is with you, and He will bring peace even in the midst of your storm.
