How can we seek Jesus' presence when facing uncertainty, as in John 6:17? Setting the Scene John 6:17: “So they got into a boat and started across the sea to Capernaum. It was already dark, and Jesus had not yet come to them.” The disciples stepped into a night of uncertainty—water beneath, darkness around, and no visible Lord beside them. Yet before the passage ends, Jesus walks across the waves and climbs into their boat (John 6:20-21). This moment shows how to welcome His nearness when life feels dim and unsettled. The Reality of Uncertainty • Darkness can arrive suddenly—unexpected news, shifting plans, unanswered prayers. • “Jesus had not yet come to them” reminds us that between promise and appearance there can be waiting. • The lake was familiar to seasoned fishermen, yet fear still rose (Mark 6:49-50). Familiar surroundings do not cancel real anxiety. • The episode proves that uncertainty is not evidence of abandonment; Christ was already on His way. How to Seek Jesus’ Presence Today 1. Anchor in His Word • Read passages where He assures nearness: Matthew 28:20; Hebrews 13:5-6. • Personalize the truth—speak it aloud: “Lord, You are with me in this darkness.” 2. Pray with Honest Expectation • Pour out fears like David: “When I am afraid, I will trust in You” (Psalm 56:3). • Ask boldly for tangible awareness of His presence; He delights to answer (Jeremiah 29:13). 3. Lift Worship above Waves • Singing psalms and hymns shifts focus from the storm to the Savior (Psalm 42:5-6). • Worship invites His peace to rule the heart (Colossians 3:15-16). 4. Obey the Last Clear Instruction • The disciples entered the boat because Jesus told them to (Mark 6:45). Obedience keeps us in the path where He meets us. 5. Invite Fellowship and Counsel • Two or three gathered in His name experience His promise of presence (Matthew 18:20). • Shared testimony builds faith; iron sharpens iron (Proverbs 27:17). 6. Watch for His Approach • Stay spiritually alert; Jesus often arrives in unexpected ways (Luke 24:15-16). • Note small mercies—timely words, sudden calm, inner assurance—and acknowledge them as His footsteps. Scriptures That Steady the Heart • Isaiah 41:10 — “Do not fear, for I am with you…” • Psalm 46:1 — “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.” • Philippians 4:6-7 — Peace that surpasses understanding guards mind and heart. • 2 Corinthians 12:9 — His grace is sufficient; His power perfect in weakness. Key Takeaway Uncertainty may darken the shoreline, but Jesus still walks the waves. Fix eyes on His Word, lift every concern in prayer, surround yourself with worship and faithful companions, and move forward in obedience. The same Savior who stepped into the disciples’ boat enters today’s upheavals with the steadfast promise: “It is I; do not be afraid.” |
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