How does John 6:20 encourage us to trust Jesus in life's storms? Setting the Scene on the Sea • Evening has fallen. The disciples are rowing in rough water, “a strong wind was blowing” (John 6:18). • Jesus has just fed the five thousand, yet the Twelve still struggle to see His full authority. • Into their darkness and danger He walks—literally—on the waves. A Word in the Wind—“It is I” John 6:20: “But Jesus spoke up: ‘It is I; do not be afraid.’” • “It is I” translates the Greek phrase egō eimi, the very words God used in Exodus 3:14 (“I AM”). • Jesus doesn’t merely identify Himself; He reveals divine presence. • Before calming the storm, He calms their hearts: fear is addressed first. Reasons These Five Words Calm Every Storm • Certainty of His Person – He is the self-existent “I AM,” unchanging and fully sufficient. • Nearness in Trouble – He doesn’t shout from the shore; He comes onto the waves that threaten them. • Sovereignty over Creation – Walking on water displays mastery of the laws that overwhelm us. • Invitation to Confidence – “Do not be afraid” is a command grounded in who He is, not in improved circumstances. • Precedent for Future Trials – If He met them there, He will meet us in ours (Hebrews 13:8). Living This Out Today • Speak His Name aloud when anxiety rises—acknowledge, “Jesus, You are the ‘I AM.’” • Replace “What if?” thoughts with “It is He.” • Remember past deliverances; storms faced with Him build trust for the next gust. • Stay in the boat of obedience; the disciples were in danger precisely because they had followed His earlier instruction (Mark 6:45). Supporting Scriptures that Echo the Same Assurance • Isaiah 43:2: “When you pass through the waters, I will be with you….” • Psalm 93:4: “Mightier than the thunder of many waters…the LORD on high is majestic.” • Matthew 14:31: “Immediately Jesus reached out His hand and took hold of Peter.” • Philippians 4:6-7: His peace “surpasses all understanding,” even when circumstances don’t. • Revelation 1:17-18: “Do not be afraid. I am the First and the Last, and the Living One….” Simple Takeaways for the Coming Week 1. Memorize John 6:20; repeat it whenever fear surfaces. 2. Journal one instance each day where you sensed His nearness. 3. Share a recent “storm story” with another believer to encourage mutual trust in Christ. |
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