In the Middle of the Storm
The Gospel accounts of Jesus calming the storm reveal His divine authority and teach a powerful lesson about faith. Found in Mark, Luke, and Matthew, the story describes Jesus and His disciples crossing the Sea of Galilee when a sudden, violent storm threatens to sink the boat. The disciples panic and cry out for Jesus to save them. In the middle of the storm, Jesus rebukes the wind and the sea, saying, “Peace! Be still!” (Mark 4:39). The storm stops, a great calm follows, and Jesus challenges the disciples’ fear and lack of faith.
Let Go and Let God
This story invites us to examine our faith when life feels overwhelming. How often do we react in fear before we turn to God in prayer? Storms test our ability to surrender. For the alcoholic, this passage offers a clear AA reminder to “let go and let God.”
Daily Struggle
Too often, I recognize God’s faithfulness only in between storms. In that brief moment of serenity, I feel grateful, but anxiety often returns. If I were completely honest, I would admit that nine times out of ten I still choose self-will before surrender. After three decades of sobriety, I still ask myself a hard question: why do I struggle to trust God completely?
Daily Obedience
My experience has taught me that deeper trust would have spared me much fear and anxiety. Yet fear can be a persuasive voice. The strongest response to fear is trust in God’s Word, built through faithful reading and daily practice. Obedience becomes the solution. Like working the Twelve Steps in recovery, spending time in Scripture strengthens our faith, reshapes our thinking, and leads us toward true peace—not the temporary relief of self-reliance.
“I would rather be in hell with Jesus in it, than in a false peace with Him not in it.” – Philip Anthony Mitchell
Finally, obedience must be accomplished through action! We must walk the talk. “Be doers of the word, and not merely hearers who deceive themselves.”- (James 1:22). Actions speak louder than words.