Look again at Mark 6:45-52 today for a few more lessons from the storm. The disciples, in obedience to the Lord’s direction, were in the ship going to the other side. Where they were launching from and where they were landing was only a quick trip, but because of the storm, the text says, the ship was in the midst of the sea, vs 46. Honestly, it wasn’t where they expected to be. They had been blown off the desired route by the storm. Do you ever find yourself there? You didn’t plan on being where you are right now. You have been walking faithfully with the Lord, doing your best to obey His commands but suddenly some storm comes in your life and now you feel like your life has been blown off-course. Two things stand out to me.
- The force of the storm, vs 48-for the wind was contrary unto them. The idea is that it was blowing in their faces, opposing them, blowing against them, and impeding their progress. We all can identify with the force of the storm; when it feels like you are at the mercy of things you can’t control or change. Then notice-
- The frustration of the sailors, vs 48—toiling in rowing. The word toiling is interesting; it actually means to be tormented, vexed, harassed, and afflicted. The force of the storm has frustrated these seasoned sailors. They had faced many storms on the sea of Galilee but this one had brought them to the point of utter exhaustion. They were almost to their limit physically and emotionally. **Listen—even seasoned saints can struggle; it doesn’t matter how many storms you’ve faced in the past, the next one may be the big one for you. Never ever criticize another believer if they struggle in the storm. Pray for them, encourage them, strengthen them as best you can. We are Christians, yes! We are followers of Christ, yes! Yet, we are flesh and blood! Never say you would handle things differently or better. Even John the Baptist was discouraged in the prison, and he had seen the Lord face to face. He saw His miracles in person and literally touched Jesus, yet he struggled. Jesus didn’t bawl John out but sent words to help him. Hebrews 12:12-Wherefore lift up the hands which hang down, and the feeble knees. I’d much rather help lift someone’s load than make it more difficult.
Storms are confusing; they cloud our understanding, but this isn’t the end of this story. Though Jesus wasn’t with them physically in the storm, His eye was on them in the storm, vs 48-And he saw them toiling in rowing. I’ll pick up with that thought next time but, for now, I realize the storms of life get forceful and frustrating but don’t give up hope. God does have a plan in our storm. His eye is on your storm.