Immediately he made his disciples get into the boat and go before him to the other side, to Bethsaida, while he dismissed the crowd. And after he had taken leave of them, he went up on the mountain to pray. And when evening came, the boat was out on the sea, and he was alone on the land. And he saw that they were making headway painfully, for the wind was against them. And about the fourth watch of the night he came to them, walking on the sea.
Mark 6:45-48 (ESV)
Lord Jesus, I just want to thank You today for Who You are in my life. As I go through the challenges of living, I often feel like I am by myself. As I am tossed to and fro, I confess that I can find myself crying where are You, feeling left and abandoned, wondering why You have left me. I know that I am attempting to do what You have called me to do and be who You have called me to be. Why are things so hard? Why have You left me to fend for myself?
Yet, what I forget in that moment, and I thank You for reminding me this morning, is that where I am going and what I am going through You sent me there (Isaiah 58:11, Psalm 37:23). I am following Your direction. You know what I am going to be confronted with, nothing surprises You because it is all part of Your plan (Jeremiah 29:11, Isaiah 46:10). Even now You are making intercession for me to the Father, praying me through this rough road (Romans 8:34, 1 Timothy 2:5), and have the confidence in knowing that You will not leave me to my own devices but will be with me through it all (John 14:18, Hebrews l3:5).
In my limited, human way I am not clear or fully understand how all of this can be so. All I know is that it is and I praise You for this very real truth in my life! It gives me so much joy and encourages me to press on through the storms! I know that You are taking me through something to take me to something. “This is the LORD’s doing; it is marvelous in our eyes!” (Psalms 118:23)
Thank You for being that Friend that sticks closer than a brother (Proverbs 18:24), a shelter in the storm (Isaiah 32:1-2), and the One Who gives me peace (John 14:27). Hold my hand throughout this day and speak to my spirit, reminding me of Your love for me. I love You LORD. Thank You for loving me. Amen.