The presence of Jesus

Matthew 14:25-33 And in the fourth watch of the night He came to them, walking on the sea.  ²⁶When the disciples saw Him walking on the sea, they were terrified, and said, "It is a ghost!" And they cried out in fear.  ²⁷But immediately Jesus spoke to them, saying, "Take courage, it is I; do not be afraid."  ²⁸Peter said to Him, "Lord, if it is You, command me to come to You on the water."  ²⁹And He said, "Come!" And Peter got out of the boat, and walked on the water and came toward Jesus.  ³⁰But seeing the wind, he became frightened, and beginning to sink, he cried out, "Lord, save me!"  ³¹ Immediately Jesus stretched out His hand and took hold of him, and said to him, "You of little faith, why did you doubt?"  ³²When they got into the boat, the wind stopped.  ³³And those who were in the boat worshiped Him, saying, "You are certainly God's Son!"

1.      The problem of his presence

            “They were troubled.” “They cried out for fear.” They did not recognize Jesus. He is always present. He is with us always. We should always be able to recognize him and be willing to honor him everywhere.

2.      The proof of his presence

            Jesus assured the disciples of his presence with the same clear voice that they had often heard. He said “Be of good cheer; it is I; be not afraid.” Hear the voice of Jesus who comes to us just when we need Him most.

3.      The permission of his presence

            There was doubt in the heart of Peter, and Jesus gave him permission to walk on the water and to come to him, but Peter’s faith failed when he took his eyes off Jesus and saw the boisterous waves. Jesus is willing to be triad.

4.      The power of his presence

            When Peter began to sink, he cried unto Jesus “Lord, save me.” Jesus stretched forth his hand, lifted the disciple out of trouble, and calmed the waves. Jesus has power to control nature. He has all power and will manifest it to save the people. Call of him.

5.      The praise of his presence

            “They that were in the ship came and worshipped him, saying, of a truth thou art the Son of God.” Hearts of praise should be lifted to Jesus for all that He is to our weak and failing lives. Praise Him. Worship Him, Love him. Live in the presence of Jesus and allow Him to give blessings.