There will always be a storm

I think I'm starting to really understand (a little more, at least) that there is always going to be a storm. There are always going to be problems, but it is my choice whether I focus on the problems or focus on the Answer. It's just like the story with Peter walking on the water with Jesus in Matt. 14:24-33.

It says clearly in v. 24 - "But the boat was now in the middle of the sea, tossed by the waves, for the wind was contrary." These are obviously problems. Peter chose, at first, to look at Jesus, and not at the problems. This is so key. It was when Peter took his eyes off of Jesus and looked at the problem that he began to doubt Jesus:

"But when he saw that the wind was boisterous, he was afraid; and beginning to sink he cried out, saying 'Lord save me!'" (v. 30).

When he took his eyes off Jesus, he lost sight (literally too) that he was already safe and, doubting, cried out to be saved. We do that so often. We take our eyes off Jesus, look at our problem(s), and forget that we are safe. We really ARE safe when we are abiding in and gazing upon Jesus!

In compassion, understanding his weak heart, Jesus stretches out His hand to save Peter and says to him, "'O you of little faith, why did you doubt?'" (v. 31) I always thought that Jesus was addressing Peter's doubt that he could walk on water, and that may be part of it, but what I am getting an understanding of is that Jesus is talking about the fact that Peter doubted that he was safe with Jesus. Peter doubted Jesus and then in His kindness He stretches out His hand to save Peter, even though he was already safe. I can relate, Peter.

So, my epiphany today is that there are always going to be waves and wind of some sort. In my naive, fantasy mind I have always thought that they would go away. They may diminish in seasons, but will never disappear. The trick is learning to keep my eyes on Jesus and realize that I truly am SAFE, even if I can feel the wind on my face and the waves splashing around my feet.