Shortly before dawn Jesus went out to them, walking on the lake. When the disciples saw him walking on the lake, they were terrified. “It’s a ghost,” they said, and cried out in fear. But Jesus immediately said to them: “Take courage! It is I. Don’t be afraid.” 

~Matthew 14:25-27 NIV

 “I am here!” These words were a healing balm to the disciples during their anguish. They feared for their very lives as they watched the waves toss to and fro ferociously.

The struggling disciples held on with all their strength as the sea churned and the waves tossed their boat around. Fear and astonishment gripped them. Looking up they saw someone walking toward them on the water. At first, they thought it was a ghost, but Jesus called to them saying, “Take courage. I am here!”  How relieved they must have felt to hear the familiar voice calling to them.

As we continue reading verses 28-32, we see Peter saying, “Lord, if it’s You, tell me to come to You on the water.” Jesus replied, “Come.” Peter stepped out of the boat to go to the Lord, but he did not keep his eyes on Jesus. Instead He looked at the raging wind and sea and begin to sink. He cried out “Lord, save me.” Immediately, Jesus reached for him, saved him, and asked him why he doubted. As they got into the boat the wind died down and all of the occupants in the boat worshiped Jesus saying, “Truly You are the Son of God.”

What wonderful assurance we have that Jesus is with us in the middle of life’s inevitable storms. He reminds us to take courage because He is there. He reaches out to us during family illness, unexpected life changes, rising cost of living, or relationship problems. Jesus is present! Our Lord provides peace and strength, calming the raging water and our trembling hearts by His presence.

Whether Jesus steps into the situation and quiets the storm or allows us to come to Him across the churning waves, our heart can be at peace because He is there.

Bride of Christ, take a moment to remember times when you cried out to Jesus. Share those moments as an encouragement to others.

Share an “I am here” moment you experienced with Beloved Jesus.

Lord Jesus, thank You for the freedom I have to call out to You and for the assurance that You will never leave me or forsake me.

Your Bride,

Genre: Biblical Non-fiction

Copyright 2023: I am Here: Glenda Shouse: All Rights Reserved