The Power That Strengthens You预览

PEACE IS YOUR STRENGTH

As human beings, we naturally tend to observe much more of what happens around us than what is happening inside us. But the way we perceive external events often reveals the thoughts, beliefs, and emotions that are within us.

People may have different reactions to the same situation. We can see this when Jesus and his disciples are in the middle of a storm (read Luke 8:22-25). This story shows two types of reactions that express what is inside. Upon seeing the force of the storm, the disciples felt fear and despair.

They had a natural reaction to a threat, but they didn’t realize that these emotions were starting to dominate them.They thought they were powerless to change the situation, and it revealed their lack of faith in what Jesus had said before they got on the boat. They focused on what was against them on the outside rather than holding onto the word that Jesus had previously released into their hearts.

In the face of the same storm, Jesus slept in peace, with security in the Father. Jesus knew that his mission was to reach the other side of the river and his purpose had not yet been fulfilled. When his disciples woke him up, Jesus did not allow their despair or the storm to steal the faith and peace within him.

Jesus rebuked the storm that was trying to keep them from reaching their mission field. He showed that no matter how big the storm outside was, it didn't have the power to change his peace and trust in the Father. With authority, Jesus rebuked the violent waters and calmed the storm.

Jesus changed the external circumstances because He kept his faith and peace inside. When you stand firm in faith in God's word, your heart is full of peace and fear can't dominate you.

God created you for a purpose, but as you walk to fulfill that purpose, you may have to face some unexpected storms along the way. Don't be intimidated by the size of the strong waves that rise against your finances, your health, your family, or any other area of your life. Believe God’s word is more powerful than those things.

Concentrate on God's promises so that His peace will continue to strengthen you inside. Then the storm outside can't stop you from reaching the blessings God has in store for you.