Straining or Surrender?

 Job 2l; Mark 5-6 

“When evening came, the boat was in the middle of the lake, and he was alone on land. He saw the disciples straining at the oars, because the wind was against them…Immediately he spoke to them and said, ‘Take courage! It is I. Don’t be afraid.’ Then he climbed into the boat with them, and the wind died down…”

Mark 6:47, 48, 50, 51

How do we respond when we are in deep water and the wind is against us?

The disciples knew they had authority in Christ and had already exercised that authority in driving our demons and healing people; however, the stormy lake presented a new challenge for which they felt unprepared. While Jesus walked on the waves, the disciples fought them.

What are we fighting against that Jesus has already overcome?

Jesus’ word to the disciples was to take courage and not fear. 

In the midst of our struggles, can we stop, resist fear, and find courage in the presence of Jesus?

Jesus has called us to be overcomers. He is the great “I am”, the self-existent one who created the wind and the sea.

Will we stop straining and fully surrender to Jesus in all areas of our lives?

“Lord Jesus, I repent for straining against the wind and waves. You are my life and my source. Thank you for courage today to live by the Spirit, for your glory.”