(Part 2: Oh You of Little Faith: A Call to Deeper Trust)
Introduction: The Test of Faith in Stormy Seasons
Life is full of storms—physical, emotional, and spiritual—that test our faith and resilience. It is in these moments of chaos that the depth of our trust in God is revealed. For the disciples, one of the most profound lessons on faith came in the middle of a literal storm.
Mark 4:35–41 recounts the dramatic event:
“He said to His disciples, ‘Why are you so afraid? Do you still have no faith?’”
This episode reminds us that fear often clouds faith, leaving us vulnerable to the chaos around us. Why does fear take over, and how can we cultivate trust in the One who commands even the wind and waves?
The Story: Jesus Calms the Storm
Jesus and His disciples were crossing the Sea of Galilee when a fierce storm arose. Waves broke over the boat, threatening to sink it. The disciples, seasoned fishermen, panicked. Meanwhile, Jesus was asleep on a cushion in the stern.
In their desperation, they woke Him, saying, “Teacher, don’t you care if we drown?”
Jesus got up, rebuked the wind, and said to the waves, “Quiet! Be still!” The storm ceased, and calm was restored. Turning to His disciples, Jesus asked, “Why are you so afraid? Do you still have no faith?”
This moment encapsulates the tension between fear and faith. Even though the disciples had witnessed Jesus’ miracles, they still doubted His care and power.
The Nature of Fear: A Barrier to Faith
- Fear Amplifies the Storm
Fear distorts our perspective, making challenges seem insurmountable. The disciples saw the storm as a life-threatening force, forgetting they were with the Creator of the universe.- Biblical Insight: Isaiah 43:2: “When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you.”
- Fear Questions God’s Care
The disciples’ question—“Don’t you care?”—reveals a deeper fear: that God might not intervene in their time of need. This doubt undermines our trust in His character.- Biblical Insight: 1 Peter 5:7: “Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you.”
Faith in Chaos: Lessons from the Storm
- Faith Acknowledges God’s Sovereignty
Jesus’ command over the storm demonstrates His authority over all creation. Faith recognises that no situation is beyond His control.- Key Scripture: Psalm 46:10: “Be still, and know that I am God.”
- Faith Stems from Relationship
The disciples had witnessed Jesus’ power but failed to fully trust Him because they did not yet grasp the depth of His love and commitment. Faith grows as we deepen our relationship with Christ.- Key Scripture: Romans 10:17: “Consequently, faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word about Christ.”
- Faith Requires Resting in God
Jesus’ sleep during the storm wasn’t indifference—it was a demonstration of trust in the Father’s plan. Faith rests, knowing that God is in control even when circumstances appear dire.- Key Scripture: Matthew 11:28: “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”
Debate: Is Fear a Sign of Weakness or Humanity?
- Fear as Weakness:
Fear can indicate a lack of trust in God, exposing areas where our faith needs strengthening. Passages like James 1:6-8 warn against being “double-minded,” suggesting that fear divides our loyalty to God. - Fear as Humanity:
Others argue that fear is a natural human response, even for the faithful. What matters is how we respond to fear—whether we let it drive us away from God or draw us closer to Him. The Psalms, filled with raw expressions of fear and doubt, show that God meets us in our humanity.
Practical Steps to Trust God in Chaos
- Anchor Yourself in God’s Promises
Memorise scriptures that affirm God’s power and faithfulness, such as Joshua 1:9 and Psalm 91:4. - Pray Through the Storm
Instead of allowing fear to dominate, turn to God in honest prayer, asking for His peace and guidance.- Key Action: Develop a habit of praying immediately when fear arises.
- Remember Past Deliverance
Reflect on times when God has brought you through difficult situations. Let His past faithfulness fuel your present trust.- Key Action: Keep a journal of answered prayers and revisit it during challenging times.
- Surround Yourself with Faith-Filled Community
Fellowship with other believers who can encourage you and pray with you during storms.
Conclusion: Faith That Anchors
Jesus’ question to the disciples—“Why are you so afraid?”—is one we must confront in our own lives. Fear is a natural response, but it doesn’t have to control us. When the waves rise, faith anchors us in the truth that God is greater than any storm.
- Closing Scripture: Philippians 4:6-7: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
As you navigate your own storms, remember: The same voice that calmed the Sea of Galilee speaks peace into your chaos. Trust Him.
Stay tuned for Part 3: “Small Faith, Big God: How Much Faith Do We Really Need?”