Praying for calm in your storm
Sometimes, we just want things to be okay
I have shared a bit about my journey through these posts, but let me offer some bullet points before diving in:
I went “all in” with Jesus in high school
I wrestled with my faith as I closed in on a ministry degree
I worked in a ministry position for 4 years
I was forced out of a ministry position by a toxic leader
I found myself in the worst spot of my life, financially
I’m, somehow, still here today…having published at least one book and writing these daily emails
As you can see, I’ve had my ups and downs over the years, just like you.
But, man…
…those storms can be rough and those seas can be choppy.
In those moments of my life, I totally understand why Peter struggled to walk on the waves and trust in Jesus. Those waves, that wind, they can really drag you down.
And, during those times, all I wanted was for Jesus to look at the sky, look at those lightning-streaked clouds, and speak, “Peace. Be still.”
I’d love to watch that calm wash over my life…
But that wasn’t the point of that story.
Because, ultimately, Jesus spoke…and creation listened.
And I think it’s easy to forget that.
Jesus prayed, spoke his will, and the earth responded.
In Matthew 10 we see Jesus grant power to his disciples. And in 1 John 17 we see in the High Priestly Prayer of Jesus over his disciples that he is sending them with all authority just as he was sent from the Father.
Which means…we can pray for the calming of the storms in our life and, so long as they align with the will of God, creation will listen.
Jesus modeled this rhythm of prayer for us so we can know how to pray for our own calm in the storm, while also going before the one who we know can calm any raging sea.
My prayer for today
Our Father, thank you for granting us the power and authority to call for calm in our prayers and in our life. Jesus, remind us how to use that gift and help us to always use it for the coming Kingdom. Spirit, direct our hearts and minds to what is good, even if it means our own suffering. Amen.
Remember
When Peter walked on the stormy waves, Jesus was right there. Almost in reach. And even Peter faltered to hold to what he knew was true when it was standing just feet away from him.
So don’t beat yourself up when you falter a bit yourself.