REST IN HIS PROMISES

I work on an Air Force base 40+ hours a week. Then, I work on Leigh's B.L.V.D. at least 20 hours or more depending on the time I allotted. Also, I'm always on the go traveling somewhere for a birthday, a girls' trip, or spending time with family and friends in my hometown (Toledo, OH Go Rockets!!). So, when I get the time after work, I do try to rest. When I get a free weekend, I tend to just want to Netflix and chill (Iol) on my couch. 

Jesus wasn't Netflix and chilling on the couch in Mark 4:35-41. He didn't try to rest in a bed because he had some time after work. He rested while it was night, dark and windy. The boat was rocking so fiercely in the middle of a monstrous storm that the disciples were fearing for their lives. How do you just happen to fall asleep in a storm like that? Granted, Jesus was tired after ministering and teaching, but he didn't just happen to nod off. When Jesus went to sleep on that rocking boat, he definitely did it on purpose.

How is this evident? The scripture tells us. Mark 4:38 says Jesus was "sleeping on the cushion." Jesus purposely walked to the stern --the back of the boat-- with a pillow in hand. He could stretch out and sleep comfortably. When we are stretched out, asleep on a pillow, we have the intention to go to sleep. Jesus was purposefully snoring (if he snored).

The question is how could Jesus sleep during this storm? Didn't he hear it? Perhaps he was testing to see if the disciples would believe the promise he told them. He wanted to know if they would trust what he said more than the circumstances going on around them. 

Jesus had already told the disciples what was going to happen. He had said in Mark 4:35, "Let's cross over to the other side of the sea." Jesus could sleep in peace after the one sentence. He didn't say that they would drown in the middle of the sea. On the contrary, Jesus said, "Let's cross over to the other side of the sea." No monstrous storm would change the plan.

Jesus' disciples did what we do now after a sermon or Bible study. We hear the message but don't apply the meaning to our lives. If the disciples heard the implication of what Jesus said, maybe they would have grabbed a pillow and laid beside him. Instead, they missed the promise by only hearing the words.

I challenge you today to never forget the promise when you find yourself in a problem. Remember what Jesus has told you in scripture, during prayer and devotion. He is always right next you. Take your pillow and trust His promises so you can rest. 

Always remember your Belief Lets Victory Develop and Your Faith and Journey Starts Now!!

Keep your faith FAM,

LEIGH