9-4-23 Peace in the Storm

Daily Devotion: Peace in the Storm - by Greg Laurie – www.harvest.org Suddenly, a fierce storm struck the lake, with waves breaking into the boat. But Jesus was sleeping. —Matthew 8:24 The violent storm didn’t awaken Jesus, but the cry of His disciples did. In one sense, He was asleep, but in another sense, He was not, because the Bible says of God, “Indeed, he who watches over Israel never slumbers or sleeps” (Psalm 121:4 NLT). This is a beautiful glimpse into the humanity and divinity of Jesus. What could be more human than sleeping after a long day of work? And what could be more divine than rebuking a storm and watching it stop a moment later? Jesus told His panicked disciples, “Why are you afraid? You have so little faith!” (Matthew 8:26 NLT). This verse goes on to say that Jesus “got up and rebuked the wind and waves, and suddenly there was a great calm.” Mark’s Gospel adds that Jesus said to the sea, “Peace, be still!” (Mark 4:39 NKJV). A more literal translation of the phrase would be “Peace, be muzzled!” It’s as though Jesus were speaking to a wild animal. Indeed, Jesus was speaking to Satan, who was behind this storm. The Devil was trying to stop Jesus from reaching His destination. On the other side of the lake, Jesus would find two severely demon-possessed men, and He would deliver them from their suffering. This reminds us that Satan is always on duty. He doesn’t rest. In fact, the Bible describes him as “a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour” (1 Peter 5:8 nlt). This is the reason that a spiritual battle will ensue when you try to save someone from Satan and bring them to Christ. The Devil doesn’t want to let his captives go. Jesus didn’t promise the disciples that the journey would be smooth sailing, but He did say, “Let us cross over to the other side” (Mark 4:35 NLT). In the same way, the Bible says that God will complete the work He has begun in you (see Philippians 1:6). You will reach the other side.