What! Is the ship which carried Jesus overtaken in the storm? If there is a providence, might we not expect that, when the Son of God was sailing, the sea should be quiet? Shall the rude winds heave the waves on high, or assail the ship which carries the Creator? Would not human wisdom forbid every rude blast, and command gentle breezes to fill the sails? Not so in the wisdom of Divine providence. Jesus goes aboard, and the howling tempest is let loose: the ship reels, and the yawning abyss threatens to overwhelm all in ruin.
“And when he was entered into a ship, his disciples followed him. And, behold, there arose a great tempest in the sea, insomuch that the ship was covered with the waves: but he was asleep. And his disciples came to him, and awoke him, saying, Lord, save us: we perish. And he saith unto them, Why are ye fearful, O ye of little faith? Then he arose, and rebuked the winds and the sea; and there was a great calm. But the men marvelled, saying, What manner of man is this, that even the winds and the sea obey him!” (Matthew 8:23-27).
And this was a wise providence. It glorified the Son of God, by giving Him an opportunity of manifesting Himself as the Lord of the seas and of the winds. ” … Peace, be still … “ (Mark 4:39), said the Lord, and the sea was as smooth as a pail of milk. This was the same power that spake the world into existence. This providence was also for the good of the disciples. It increased their faith in the Son of God.
When the Lord’s people sail, they should not fanatically suppose that providence will certainly give them fine weather. If the Son of God experienced a storm, His people cannot plead exemption. But they have ground to pray for a prosperous voyage, and reason to expect that providence will give it, if Divine wisdom has not purpose to serve by a tempest.
The Lord does not put his people to trial without necessity: if He presents dangers before their eyes, it is to excite them to call on Him, and trust in His power and love. Jesus rebukes the fears of the disciples. Where was their faith? Was not Jesus at hand? And is not Jesus always at hand with His people? Let them, then, with confidence call on Him, ” … Lord, save us … “ (Matthew 8:25).