What Kind of Man is This?

We Fret, He Rests

Part of our humanity is the idea that somehow we can altar our realities.

In for the first time we see mankind attempt to solve a problem they could not possibly solve.

Sin leads to self-reliance for spiritual needs which is further sin.

Jesus wasn’t worried about the storm because He was in tune with the Father’s plan for His life.

Jesus rested in His Father’s love and will rather than in His own plans.

In , Jesus said, “I say to you, the Son can do nothing of Himself, unless it is something He sees the Father doing; for whatever the Father does, these things the Son also does in like manner.

In , Jesus said, “I can do nothing on My own initiative.”

In , Jesus said, “I do nothing on My own initiative, but I speak these things as the Father taught me. And He who sent Me is with Me; He has not left Me alone, for I always do the things that are pleasing to Him.”

We must rely upon the grace and mercy of God and not our own abilities.

Jesus is not like us in that He was able to perfectly rest in the knowledge that His Father was in control.

We Fear, He Conquers

Another aspect of our humanity that contrasts so vividly with Christ’s life is the way we surrender to fear.

The situation of the disciples was definitely serious, but most of them were seasoned fishermen, they had experienced other storms.

This was not like just any other storm, though.

“Seismos” is the word used and it is translated in other places in Matthew as earthquake. This was a major issue that developed instantly.

Fear, in and of itself is not the issue, it is our response to fear.

The disciples demonstrated a lack of faith in Jesus’ instructions because he had obviously set the course for this journey.

If God sets our course, it is always the best option.

Jesus’ response to the storm is vastly different from the disciples and ours.

The storm that they were crying over, calmed immediately at the Word of Jesus.

Whatever it is we face in life, when we are in the will of God, we can trust that He WILL work in it for our good and His glory.

Romans 8:28 NASB95

And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.

We Cry Out, He Hears

Perhaps most amazing to me in this passage is the idea that Jesus hears the cries of His followers.

In the midst of the clammoring of everyday life, it is so difficult to hear things clearly.

We are bombarded with stimulation from the moment we awaken to the moment we slip into sleep.

Our lives are so cluttered that we cannot hear the needs around us.

Jesus always hears our cries.

Psalm 56:8 NASB95

You have taken account of my wanderings; Put my tears in Your bottle. Are they not in Your book?

When we seek Him, He will be found

Jeremiah 29:13 NASB95

‘You will seek Me and find Me when you search for Me with all your heart.

Cry out to the One who cares for you.