When life feels overwhelming, God remains present and provides what we need for endurance.

Immediately He made the disciples get into the boat and go ahead of Him to the other side, while He sent the crowds away. After He had sent the crowds away, He went up on the mountain by Himself to pray; and when it was evening, He was there alone. But the boat was already a long distance from the land, battered by the waves; for the wind was contrary. And in the fourth watch of the night, He came to them, walking on the sea. When the disciples saw Him walking on the sea, they were terrified, and said, “It is a ghost!” And they cried out in fear. But immediately Jesus spoke to them, saying, “Take courage, it is I; do not be afraid.” Peter said to Him, “Lord, if it is You, command me to come to You on the water.” And He said, “Come!” And Peter got out of the boat, and walked on the water and came toward Jesus. But seeing the wind, he became frightened, and beginning to sink, he cried out, “Lord, save me!” Immediately Jesus stretched out His hand and took hold of him, and said to him, “You of little faith, why did you doubt?” When they got into the boat, the wind stopped. And those who were in the boat worshiped Him, saying, “You are certainly God’s Son!” When they had crossed over, they came to land at Gennesaret. Matthew 14:22-34

None of us likes suffering. But in God’s hands, trials can become tools that shape us into the people He created us to be.

In our own strength, we often lack the resources and abilities to meet life’s big challenges. So, God provides just what we need and gives us an awareness of His presence. In today’s reading, the disciples thought they were alone in a storm. When they initially spotted the Lord, they were afraid because they mistook Him for a ghost. To quickly calm their fears, Jesus said, “Take courage, it is I; do not be afraid” (v. 27). During a crisis, we may not sense God’s presence, but He’s promised always to be with us (Deuteronomy 31:6). Assurance of His presence provides immediate comfort and a sense of confidence that helps us endure.

Another promise God makes is to provide a path through trials. The disciples must have wondered if they’d make it safely to shore. But had they somehow avoided this storm, they would have missed the demonstration of Jesus’ power. God wants to reveal His might to us as well.

Ask the Lord to let you experience His abiding presence. He will provide strength to endure and wisdom to identify the way through your troubles.