(Jesus walks on water)
“When evening came, his disciples went down to the lake, where they got into a boat and set off across the lake for Capernaum. By now it was dark, and Jesus had not yet joined them. A strong wind was blowing and the waters grew rough.When they had rowed about three or four miles, they saw Jesus approaching the boat, walking on the water; and they were frightened. But he said to them, “It is I; don’t be afraid.” Then they were willing to take him into the boat, and immediately the boat reached the shore where they were heading.” John 6:16-21 NIV
Key phrase: “It is I; don’t be afraid.”
I Am Afraid When:
- When I cannot see my way (“By now it was dark”)
- When I feel alone (“Jesus had not yet joined them.”)
- When I am out of my comfort zone (Mark 6:47: “the boat was in the middle of the lake.”)
- When my circumstances are tough (“A strong wind was blowing and the waters grew rough”)
- When I am struggling and feeling like a failure (“When they had rowed about three or four miles,”)
What does Jesus dowhen I am afraid?
- He praysfor me ahead of time (Matthew 14:23, Luke 22:32, Romans 8:34)
- He seesmy struggles and fears (Mark 6:48a, Hebrews 4:15)
- He comesat the moment of my desperation (Mark 6:48b)
- He showsme His true identity (“It is I do not be afraid.”)
What should I dowhen I am afraid?
- I should “take courage” because He is with me (Mark 6:50)
- I should take a step of faith(Matthew 14:28-29)
- I need to stay focusedon Jesus (Matthew 14:30)
- I need to fight doubt(Matthew 14:31)
- I need to praise Him(Matthew 14:32-33)