“IT IS I; DON’T BE AFRAID”

When they had rowed about three or four miles, they saw Jesus approaching the boat, walking on the
water; and they were frightened.But he said to them,“It is I; don’t be afraid”. Then they were willing to
take him into the boat, and immediately the boat reached the shore where they were heading. (John 6:19-
21)
Frustration. Fear. Desperation. Anxiety. Pain. Agony. Turmoil.
These are the different emotions we experience at least once a day. Some of us if we are honest, we sense
it every moment! The situations we face are unique to our individual lives, but we end up being gripped
by these common emotions. Eventually, not knowing how to navigate through the “storm” we make poor
choices that affect us for a lifetime.

Once the disciples of Jesus had to navigate through a storm that confounded them. But it was in the
middle of the storm, they saw Jesus walking on the water towards them. Jesus calmly declared six words
which initially terrified the disciples, but ultimately proved to be a vital comfort: “It is I; don’t be afraid”
These six words should be God’s word of comfort for us regardless of whatever we face in our lives:
Firstly, listen to Jesus’ voice irrespective of the decibel level of the storm around you. Listening to his
voice and obeying him is the crucial compass to steer through the tempests of your life.

Secondly, treasure Jesus’ presence always. When Jesus said, “It is I; don’t be afraid” it was not just a
mental acknowledgment of his presence. In fact, it was a bold declaration of his character as the Son of
God and reminder that He is the “Great I am”. Basically, Jesus was stating, “I am ALL that you need in
your life at ALL times. I am able to slay your worst storms and calm your greatest fears. I am with you. I
am for you. I am your Savior and Lord.”

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