Dear Explorer,
Read Matthew 14:22-27
So, Jesus is on land spending some time praying and He apparently sent the disciples home in the boat. Jesus spent time alone in prayer.
What time of day did Jesus rescue them?
Some translations say around dawn, some say in the 4th watch meaning between 3 and 6 a.m. If they left the evening before, you are talking about some very tired men.
What did they think that they saw?
What did Jesus tell them?
Read Mark 6:45-52
Mark tells us the position of the boat. Where was it?
Most translations say they were in the middle of the sea, but others just say they were out on the sea – meaning they were not near the coast.
Now, I don't want to be improper in what I say, but I think Jesus was filled with humor and good-natured jostling with these men. Do you see what I see in Mark 6:48?
I believe that Jesus saw the men in trouble. They had rowed and rowed and rowed and were exhausted. He also knew that they didn't yet understand that He was Lord of Creation. I think that Jesus put His hands in His pockets (did they have pockets?) and started whistling a happy tune as He walked right past the disciples who were struggling against the wind. I can just see their faces! I believe that He had a serious message, but I also believe He was full of good humor. I think we get a glimpse of it right here.
What do you think it means that their hearts were hardened?
I think they were still wrestling with disbelief. They had seen 100's of miracles by now. Yet, they struggled to believe that Jesus was able to take care of all the details. We need to stand guard against hardened hearts. What does that look like in a follower of Jesus today?
Forgetting that God is in control.
Forgetting that God can take care of our needs.
Forgetting that God loves us.
Forgetting – hum, it seems to have something to do with forgetting who God is and what He can do. What are some things you could do to keep from forgetting?
One thing I highly recommend is to start keeping a record of answered prayer. God is so faithful to us, but we forget quickly. Keep a prayer journal so that you can look back over and remember His mighty works in your life.
Read John 6:16-21
What happened when Jesus got into the boat?
Now, if they were in the middle of the Lake when this happened, how did they suddenly get to their destination?
God is at work here. Can He do that? Certainly! God can do anything. I think Jesus knew the disciples were exhausted and He provided for their needs just as He provides for ours. Don't lose your sense of awe!
In His service, dale
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