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Elijah is on the run, scared for his life. As a prophet of God, he was up against those who pursued other gods (like Baal).

The disciples aren't running, but rowing, straining hard against the winds and the waves and then they see a person out there!

Elijah and the disciples were in the same,.... boat, so to speak. They were uncertain, and that uncertainty led to fear, and their reactions.

Elijah didn't know what to do anymore and he was physically threatened - so he ran. But when you have to run from home, where do you go and what hope do you have? (I think of refugees.)

The disciples knew waves caused wind and that boats could sink, but they had made the trip before. Still, I am sure that the nagging question of whether or not they would make it across with the wind against them was in the back of their minds - then add on the shock of seeing someone walking on those waves!

Uncertainty need not lead to fear- but it often does. We want to KNOW! But faith says "TRUST."

To help us get there we hear of Elijah being reminded by God that God is in the peace of silence, not the noise and fury of fire and earthquake. The disciples, worried about the wind and waves, are reminded who is not worried about those things, because he is just walking on them!

"Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled, and do not let them be afraid." (John 14:27)

"And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." (Philippians 4:7)

In times of uncertainty over what is happening, or what might happen next; and during times when you are straining to keep moving, and the boat keeps rocking - look to the one who walks on the water. Listen for the one who speaks in the silence.

Make space for that peace of God. Trust that the one who holds you, holds the future as well.