Matthew 8:23-26

“Then he got into the boat and his disciples followed him. Suddenly a furious storm came up on the lake, so that the waves swept over the boat. But Jesus was sleeping. The disciples went and woke him, saying, “Lord, save us! We’re going to drown!” He replied, “You of little faith, why are you so afraid?” Then he got up and rebuked the …winds and the waves, and it was completely calm.”

This is one of my favorite scenes in the Bible. All hell is breaking loose out there on the Sea of Galilee. There is a boat full of experienced fishermen who are freaking out…and one guy sleeping peacefully in the bow. What a fascinating dichotomy.

For Jesus, it’s just another day on a boat. For His followers, it looks to be the end of the line. Why such a stark difference? Jesus KNOWS He is in control while His followers merely acknowledge that He MIGHT be. In fact, their circumstances completely overwhelmed their “faith”. They freaked out. Jesus slept. Sound familiar?

OK friend…here’s the deal: If you really understand that God is in control, and if you have a firm grasp on His nature (good, loving, faithful, etc.), THEN you will be able to be anxious for NOTHING. You will be able to figuratively “fall asleep in the boat” despite the storm that rages around you.

One other point: The guys freaking out in the boat were at a huge disadvantage compared to us. They had yet to receive the Holy Spirit. That power was with them on the boat but still not IN them. We have it, yet we live as if we don’t. Remember 1 John 4:18? Perfect love casts out fear. THAT is why Jesus was asleep. He was and still is “perfect love”. He had the power to keep those guys safe and He had the love to care about their well being…and so He slept.

PLEASE remember that the next time the waves start slamming into your boat. He might let you get tossed around a bit to strengthen your faith, but He will never let you drown.