Tuesday: God’s Presence in the Storm
Storms have a way of shaking us to our core, don’t they? Whether they’re literal or figurative, storms remind us of how small we are and how desperately we need something—or Someone—greater than ourselves. When I was 15 I was a lifeguard at a community pool. Out of nowhere, a lightning storm appeared striking the fencing around the pool. I can still hear the screams of those little girls racing for shelter - their hair was standing on ends. It was creepy and frightening. I still have a fear of lightning - but don't tell anyone!
Historical Context:
In the first century, the Sea of Galilee’s storms weren’t just feared for their ferocity—they were also deeply symbolic. Ancient Jewish culture often viewed water as a representation of chaos and disorder. For example, the sea in the story of Jonah becomes an image of God’s power over nature and Jonah’s disobedience.
The disciples, many of whom were fishermen, would have known these waters well. They had likely weathered storms before, but this particular squall must have been extraordinary to make seasoned sailors fear for their lives. Yet, the detail that Jesus was asleep adds an interesting layer.
In Jewish thought, sleep could symbolize trust. Psalm 4:8 says, “In peace I will lie down and sleep, for you alone, Lord, make me dwell in safety.” Jesus’ sleep in the midst of chaos was not indifference—it was a demonstration of His unshakable trust in the Father’s sovereignty.
Modern Context:
What storms are you weathering right now? Maybe it’s financial strain, a health crisis, or uncertainty about the future. Like the disciples, we often find ourselves panicking, wondering, “Does God even see what I’m going through?” The truth is, God’s presence doesn’t always look the way we expect it to.
Sometimes, God “sleeps” in the storm—not because He’s unaware, but because He wants us to learn to trust Him. Today’s culture is obsessed with control; we want solutions, answers, and guarantees. But faith means believing that God is present, even when we can’t see Him working. Are you willing to trust that He’s in the boat with you, even if He seems silent?
Reflection:
Think about an area of your life where you feel overwhelmed or out of control. How would your perspective change if you truly believed that God was present with you in the storm? Instead of focusing on the chaos around you, take a moment to rest in the knowledge that He is near, even when the waves feel overwhelming.
Closing Prayer:
Lord, when life feels chaotic and overwhelming, remind me that You are with me in the storm. Teach me to trust Your presence, even when You seem silent. Help me to find peace in the knowledge that You are in control. Strengthen my faith and calm my fears today. Amen.
Storms have a way of shaking us to our core, don’t they? Whether they’re literal or figurative, storms remind us of how small we are and how desperately we need something—or Someone—greater than ourselves. When I was 15 I was a lifeguard at a community pool. Out of nowhere, a lightning storm appeared striking the fencing around the pool. I can still hear the screams of those little girls racing for shelter - their hair was standing on ends. It was creepy and frightening. I still have a fear of lightning - but don't tell anyone!
Historical Context:
In the first century, the Sea of Galilee’s storms weren’t just feared for their ferocity—they were also deeply symbolic. Ancient Jewish culture often viewed water as a representation of chaos and disorder. For example, the sea in the story of Jonah becomes an image of God’s power over nature and Jonah’s disobedience.
The disciples, many of whom were fishermen, would have known these waters well. They had likely weathered storms before, but this particular squall must have been extraordinary to make seasoned sailors fear for their lives. Yet, the detail that Jesus was asleep adds an interesting layer.
In Jewish thought, sleep could symbolize trust. Psalm 4:8 says, “In peace I will lie down and sleep, for you alone, Lord, make me dwell in safety.” Jesus’ sleep in the midst of chaos was not indifference—it was a demonstration of His unshakable trust in the Father’s sovereignty.
Modern Context:
What storms are you weathering right now? Maybe it’s financial strain, a health crisis, or uncertainty about the future. Like the disciples, we often find ourselves panicking, wondering, “Does God even see what I’m going through?” The truth is, God’s presence doesn’t always look the way we expect it to.
Sometimes, God “sleeps” in the storm—not because He’s unaware, but because He wants us to learn to trust Him. Today’s culture is obsessed with control; we want solutions, answers, and guarantees. But faith means believing that God is present, even when we can’t see Him working. Are you willing to trust that He’s in the boat with you, even if He seems silent?
Reflection:
Think about an area of your life where you feel overwhelmed or out of control. How would your perspective change if you truly believed that God was present with you in the storm? Instead of focusing on the chaos around you, take a moment to rest in the knowledge that He is near, even when the waves feel overwhelming.
Closing Prayer:
Lord, when life feels chaotic and overwhelming, remind me that You are with me in the storm. Teach me to trust Your presence, even when You seem silent. Help me to find peace in the knowledge that You are in control. Strengthen my faith and calm my fears today. Amen.
Posted in Pentecost 2025
Pentecost Week Twelve - Empowered to Go
August 31st, 2025
Pentecost Week Eleven - Where Is Your Faith?
August 29th, 2025
Pentecost Week Eleven - The Power of God’s Word Copy
August 28th, 2025
Pentecost Week Eleven - Crying Out to God
August 27th, 2025
Pentecost Week Eleven - God’s Presence in the Storm
August 26th, 2025
2 Comments
My thought is that trusting in God’s presence connects directly with “Thy will be done” . Not my way or solution but trusting in His.
This one hits home!