Overcoming Fear

Wed, Mar 20, 2024

John 6:16-20 NKJV
Now when evening came, His disciples went down to the sea, got into the boat, and went over the sea toward Capernaum. And it was already dark, and Jesus had not come to them. Then the sea arose because a great wind was blowing. So when they had rowed about three or four miles, they saw Jesus walking on the sea and drawing near the boat; and they were afraid. But He said to them, “It is I; do not be afraid.”
 
In primary school, we were frequently warned about a ghostly figure known as "Kalabanda" that supposedly roamed at night. It was said to imitate the sound of heels and targeted those who were perceived as stingy. Whenever the lights flickered and the sound of heels echoed, students would panic, fearing punishment for their perceived lack of generosity. However, one day, the lights unexpectedly came on, revealing that it was actually other students using stones to create the sound. This revelation instantly dispelled the fear of Kalabanda, as we realized it was merely a prank by our peers.
 
Uncertainty often instills fear, which can lead to additional negative emotions such as anxiety and sadness. The disciples experienced fear while out on the water because they couldn't identify who was with them. However, when Jesus revealed himself to them, their fear vanished instantly. Despite being in the same circumstances—same boat, same companions, same dark sea, their revelation and assurance of Jesus' presence eradicated their fear.
 
You may be going through your version of the storm on the sea of life, work, marriage, school, business or ministry and maybe afraid because of the uncertainty of what might happen to you. However once you get a deep revelation of who God is and are assured of His presence with you, you will instantly be filled with Faith and you will indeed emerge victorious through it all.  

David in Psalm 23:4 puts it this way “Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; For You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.”

- Pastor Ivan Muhumuza