23 Others went out on the sea in ships; they were merchants on the mighty waters. 24 They saw the works of the LORD, his wonderful deeds in the deep. 25 For he spoke and stirred up a tempest that lifted high the waves. 26 They mounted up to the heavens and went down to the depths; in their peril their courage melted away. 27 They reeled and staggered like drunken men; they were at their wits' end. 28 Then they cried out to the LORD in their trouble, and he brought them out of their distress. 29 He stilled the storm to a whisper; the waves of the sea were hushed. 30 They were glad when it grew calm, and he guided them to their desired haven. 31 Let them give thanks to the LORD for his unfailing love and his wonderful deeds for men. 32 Let them exalt him in the assembly of the people and praise him in the council of the elders.

There is probably no place on earth where God’s power is shown more than on the open seas. There are times that the sea is calm and peaceful beyond our imagination and then without warning the wind begins to blow and the waves mount up. Having been in 35 foot waves for several days, I can attest to the feeling of helplessness this brings. We were on a large ship but it was tossed and bounced as though it were just a toy. This is not even close to the really bad storms that many have witnessed. We all have seen pictures of the aftermath of the floods, the hurricanes and even the tsunami. All of this power is a glimpse of the power of God. He spoke all of the oceans into existence with only a word. Imagine what he could do if he put forth some real effort! His power has no limits.

Yet, this all powerful God who created this and occasionally demonstrates it to us is concerned about us. He hears our cry for help. He calms the storm and places us securely in his hands. He brings us peace that others cannot understand. He loves us and cares about us. In fact, he loves us so much that he sent his Son to this earth to be born as a baby boy. This child grew up with one thought in mind; and that was to please his heavenly Father. Having pleased him in every respect, he then offered his sinless life in the place of our sinfulness as he died on the cross. God was pleased with him and his sacrifice and showed his approval when he raised Jesus from the dead to live forever as our High Priest and our advocate.

Our Father in heaven, hallowed is your name. May your will be done today in my life, even as it is done in heaven. Thank you for providing my needs and rescuing me from the trials and hardships of this life. Thank you for the hope of life with your forever. Fill me with your Spirit and give me wisdom, strength, love, compassion and patience today. I pray in the name of Jesus.

May God bless each of us as we rejoice in hope thru his Son.