In this episode, Pastor Ted Wilson talks about the importance of daily connection with God in these last days in which we are tasked to proclaim the three angels' messages to the world.
There is no other way to accomplish it except through Bible study, prayer, and absolute reliance upon God through the power of the Holy Spirit.
In the story of the feeding of the five thousand in Matthew 14, the 20,000 people who received food and encouragement from Jesus were ready to proclaim Him king. But His disciples, who had been so intent on becoming the leaders in the popular movement, were angry and discouraged.
Later, Jesus sent the multitudes away and rode in the boat with the disciples. Then, He went up on the mountain to pray (Matthew 14:23).
While He was praying, He saw His disciples on the ship. To test them, He caused a storm to come up for them.
Soon, Jesus went to them, walking on the sea (Matthew 14:25). The disciples were afraid as if they saw a spirit or a ghost. But He comforted them, saying, "Be of good cheer! It is I; do not be afraid" (verse 27, NKJV).
Then, Peter called out and said, "Lord, if it is You, command me to come to You on the water" (verse 28, NKJV).
Jesus invited him onto the water. But as he was walking towards Him, he felt afraid and began to sink. He yelled for help, and Jesus immediately stretched out His hand to catch him.
Now, the Master of the storm was in control of it and the wind calmed down. The disciples worshipped Him and said, "Truly, You are the Son of God" (verse 33, NKJV).
As a lesson from this story, don't ever take your eyes off Jesus. Keep your focus on Him when you are in difficulty. He will be there for you when you need Him the most.
As Ellen White says in the Desire of Ages, page 382, "Those who fail to realize their constant dependence upon God will be overcome by temptation. We may now suppose that our feet stand secure, and that we shall never be moved. We may say with confidence, 'I know in Whom I have believed; nothing can shake my faith in God and in His Word.' But Satan is planning to take advantage of our hereditary and cultivated traits of character, and to blind our eyes to our own necessities and defects. Only through realizing our own weakness and looking steadfastly unto Jesus can we walk securely."
Let us keep our eyes fixed on Jesus as we continue working on His mission until He comes.
