Why Are You Afraid?
Have you faced circumstances that threatened your life? When we find ourselves in these positions often time takes on a new dimension. Even though our adrenaline is almost pumping out of our ears, for some reason life seems to slow down – or at least that is how we may remember it.
Scientists have discovered that amidst a crisis the amygdale portion of the brain becomes more active. It lays down a second or additional track of memories related to the event. This makes the situation seem much more vibrant in our minds, thus giving us the impression of a slow motion effect. Most of us have some of these vivid moments etched upon our minds.
The disciples shared just such a vivid, common experience. They were crossing the Sea of Galilee one evening when a furious squall came up. Their small boat was being pummeled by waves ten to twenty feel high, and they were afraid they were going to drown. Jesus stopped the wind, and the waves calmed with a command, “Quiet! Be still!”
Afterwards, Jesus turned to His disciples and asked, “Why are you so afraid? Do you still have no faith?” (Mark 4:40) We don’t know the tone of His voice at that moment, so it’s difficult to fully grasp whether He was frustrated with them, or simply yearning for greater levels of character and spiritual maturity to be formed within them. Was He upset that they didn’t know they had authority to calm the storm, or was He surprised that their faith in God’s provision, protection and purposes could be so quickly abandoned because of crisis?
Jesus had articulated their destiny to become “fishers of men.” He had already called the disciples to Himself – to be with Him and to become communicators of the Kingdom of God, with authority to drive out demons. He had made it clear that God had plans for these men. Yet, circumstances overwhelmed their faith. They thought everything would be lost – their purposes, destinies, their lives - even Jesus Himself.
Jesus taught that not even a sparrow will fall to the ground apart from the will of our Father in heaven; so we have no need to be afraid. (Matthew 10:28-31) When His own life was being threatened by Pilate, Jesus said, “You would have no power over Me if it were not given to you from above.” (John 19:11) He understood that His days and ways were numbered and overseen by God, and He taught that ours are too.
When you face life threatening circumstances, when panic is screaming in your ear, remember God’s sovereignty – His love, His purposes, and His authority. Nothing can snatch you from His hand. Christ’s life in you will triumph! So, you need not worry or be afraid.
Walking in Faith with You,
Pastor Tom
