Why are you afraid?

The title is todays question and it is words that Jesus spoke to His disciples when the boat was in the storm.  We watched a wonderful message preached by Max Lucado, who is one of my favortie authors and also a gifted preacher.  He spoke about living without fear.  I needed that message. 

I have heard several message about the storm that had the disciples waking up Jesus to see if he cared.  His simple answer to that question, "Why are you afraid?"  I wish that I could sleep through storms, you know like when someone bothers you, irritates you or offends you.  It would be nice if I just slept peacefully every night like I do when there are no major concerns or issues in my life.  I find it difficult to be at peace even when someone I love or care about is having a difficult time.  Why don't I remember that I don't need to be afraid?  Why can't I see that the storm is raging but Jesus will calm it...when He's ready, not when I demmand.

I have been alive for a long time now, this blog is called fifty one pounds because that's how much weight I want to lose and that's how old I am.  It just seemed right to lose one pound for every year of my life.  You would think that all my experiences would have taught me to trust God.  I have never gone hungry, obviously.  I have never been homeless, I have never been left alone without a friend or someone who truly loves me.  Even when I chose to be alone I know with certainty that God is with me.  I have been surprised by the storms I have made it through and empowered in ways that I never imagined.  God is faithful no matter how great the storm to still it.  Sometimes it happens fast, sometimes it takes years or days.  The point is He always has a plan. 

I was reminded yesterday by that powerful message that, "Why are you afraid?", is  not a question.  It is a statement!  The only answer I can come up is because I'm a silly goose.  If I trusted Jesus to turn every storm into that still water that so calms the soul, I could live a life trusting that nothing and no one will ever be able to rob me of the peace that is offered, the kind that goes far beyond what I could ever ask for or imagine.

I love the storms, I have learned more on the other side of them than any calm waters could have taught me.  I'd be wise to remember that when I'm feeling afraid.

Be blessed with a wonderful day.