A Prayer to Pray when the Fear of Tomorrow Overwhelms Us
By Laura Bailey
Bible Reading:
“But Jesus immediately said to them: “Take courage! It is I. Don’t be afraid.” - Matthew 14:27 NIV
Listen or Read Below:
My husband and I are complete history nerds—Ancient History, Middle Ages, Modern Age—there isn’t an era unable to pique our interest. For most, learning about days long gone ranks right up there with a visit to the dentist. Amidst the current global crisis, we feel like we are in uncharted territory. A peek into the pages of history reveals a different story. During his inaugural speech in 1933, newly elected president Franklin Roosevelt told the American public, "The only thing we have to fear is fear itself." This statement has resonated with people facing difficult situations worldwide ever since. With the rise of totalitarian governments worldwide and the collapse of economies worldwide, people had ample to fear in 1933. For many, the uncertainty that plagues our country and world is the source of much anxiety and fear. One night, in need of God to give me courage, hope, and continued trust in His goodness, I recently bowed my head and prayed. While praying, the familiar story of Jesus walking on water came to mind. I lingered over Matthew 14:27, “But Jesus immediately said to them: “Take courage! It is I. Don’t be afraid.”
Jesus sent the disciples out to sea so he could go up to a mountainside to be alone and pray. The disciples spent the night amid a storm buffeted by wind and waves. In the early morning hours, they were greeted by an unknown presence walking on the water toward their boat. Most translations use the word “terrified” to describe the disciples’ response, while others read “they were full of fear.” Moreover, the passage states that the disciples actually cried out in fear, thinking they were seeing a ghost. Jesus immediately responded, “Don’t be afraid.” Upon hearing this, one would think the disciples would have breathed relief, exclaiming, “We know him! It’s Jesus! He performs miracles! We have nothing to fear!” Except, it didn’t quite go that way.
Peter’s fear lingered. Demanding proof that it really was Jesus, he climbed out of the boat and began walking on the water toward Jesus. I would feel pretty confident at this point, but what about Peter? The wind kicked up, and once again, fear overcame him. Peter began to sink, so he implored the Lord to save him, which Jesus did by reaching out His hand to take hold of him. In contrast to Peter’s response, I puff out my chest, quite proud of my “unwavering faith” in Jesus at all times. However, in reality, a scratch on the surface of my soul reveals a different picture—I am not afraid when life sails smoothly and the future shines brightly. Sure, it’s easy to trust in God’s goodness and provision for my family and me then. What is there to fear? But when waves of uncertainty swell and the “what-ifs” surge, and the deck on which my life stands becomes barely visible, I lose my grip, sinking into doubt and fear. I doubt God’s protection and providence, and if honest, I doubt God Himself.
It is important to note that Jesus did not criticize Peter for his fear but for his lack of faith. Picture yourself getting out of a boat to walk on water toward Jesus. Imagine Peter’s eyes locked in our Savior’s as he inched toward him. When all was calm, so was Peter, but when the situation shifted, his faith wavered. I confess to being just like Peter, trusting God until the slightest hint of an unsettling breeze rocks my world. The brightest time to shine for Christ is when the world is darkest. Faith in Christ does not eradicate worry; it is not a magic pill to make us forget our fears. Remember, when sinking, Peter took hold of Jesus’s hand to lift him up out of the deep. Trust in Jesus and God’s sovereignty gives us hope, which sustains and lifts us up no matter the storms we must weather, worldwide or individually. Jesus is the master of all.
Let’s Pray:
Heavenly Father, we know You are in control; let us hold fast to Your promises when we encounter storms and stress. Even in times of crisis, let us remember to serve others, looking out for their interests above our own. Let us not allow the fear of tomorrow to drain the goodness of today.
In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Photo credit: ©GettyImages/TinnakornJorruang
Laura Bailey is an author and Bible teacher who encourages women to understand what they believe, why it matters, and how to apply biblical truths to their lives. Her recent book, Embracing Eternity in the Here and Now, explores how the timeless truths of Ecclesiastes help us live more peaceful, purposeful, and plentiful lives today.
She lives in Upstate South Carolina with her husband and three young girls, where she serves as director of women's ministries at her church. Her passion is teaching the Bible to women, equipping them to live with an eternal perspective. Invite Laura to speak at your next event or learn more: www.LauraRBailey.com
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