Unrealistic expectations can keep us from seeing Jesus’ faithful love and tender care.

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!” Matthew 14:22-33

It was night.  There were high winds and crashing waves. For the disciples, who were on the sea in a small boat, the situation had become a crisis—and Jesus was not with them. He was on the mountainside praying.

In the storm, perhaps the disciples thought Jesus had forgotten them. But He knew exactly where they were and what they were experiencing. Since Jesus is omniscient, He knows our situation at every moment. No darkness can hide us; no trial can obscure His vision. We are always seen, known, and understood!

Jesus sought out the disciples, and He will do the same for us. At first, however, the Twelve didn’t realize who it was they saw walking on water. Jesus often does not come in the way that we expect. Our ideas of how He works can make us wonder where He might be and blind us to how near He actually is.

Experiencing Jesus’ presence in hard times can teach us precious truths. During an earlier experience on the water, the disciples saw both Jesus’ trust in God and His authority over nature (Matthew 8:23-26). Through the storms, they learned who Jesus was and what He could do. Let’s pray for spiritual eyes to discern the Lord’s presence. Then, may we listen for His voice and obey (John 10:27).