After fulfilling an extensive list of commitments, Jesus got into the boat, and the disciples followed Him. At sea, a great storm arose, and the Master was asleep. Seeing themselves in danger, the disciples woke Him, asking Him to save them. The boat was covered by waves. Here is the lesson: they should not have been afraid, since they had the Lord with them on that crossing.

Sometimes, we also despair over small things. However, we should never give in to fear, even if the situation seems to be out of control, especially if we have Jesus with us. The Savior is the Almighty God (Matthew 28:18). His presence in us guarantees our peace during the storms of life. Today, we are authorized to do the same works that He did. We just need to use His Name to rebuke everything that threatens us.

Christ set an example for us by getting into the boat and sleeping, because He needed to rest. Even if the enemy came against Him like a flood, the Spirit of God would take care of it, as the Scriptures declare: “So shall they fear the name of the LORD from the west, and His glory from the rising of the sun; when the enemy comes in like a flood, the Spirit of the LORD will lift up a standard against him.” Isaiah 59:19.

To raise the banner is to declare war on the threats we face. Christ's disciples should know this biblical promise in order to act wisely against the kingdom of darkness. When we appropriate God's Word, we neutralize fear and give way to courage. Christ said that we should fear nothing, because He will be with us until the end of the age (Matthew 28:20). This gives us security!

When we surrender ourselves to the Savior, we begin to live victoriously. If the enemy comes against us, the Spirit of the Lord will raise the banner against him. While the threat comes, help comes from Heaven, which flies swiftly to protect us and deliver us from every trouble. God protects us from all evil that rises against us. The Most High is the reliable and powerful Shield!

Jesus was surprised at the disciples' despair: “But He said to them, ‘Why are you fearful, O you of little faith?’ Then He arose and rebuked the winds and the sea, and there was a great calm.” Matthew 8:26. The Master revealed that fear is the reason Christians act without faith in God. The disciples believed more in the storm than in the Word. However, Jesus had clearly stated that those who believed would do the same works that He did (John 14:12).

Why be overcome by depression if it comes from the enemy? Why not believe to be healed if the Bible says that we have already been healed by Christ's wounds (Isaiah 53:4–5)? Why separate if the Lord said that what He has joined together, no man should separate (Mark 10:1–12)? If you believe in Jesus, your actions will be in line with what He says!

In Christ, with love,

R. R. Soares