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(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?

  1. He praysfor me ahead of time (Matthew 14:23, Luke 22:32, Romans 8:34)
  2. He seesmy struggles and fears (Mark 6:48a, Hebrews 4:15)
  3. He comesat the moment of my desperation (Mark 6:48b)
  4. 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)