Finding Strength When You Are Exhausted

On the next day the crowd that remained on the other side of the sea saw that there had been only one boat there, and that Jesus had not entered the boat with his disciples, but that his disciples had gone away alone. Other boats from Tiberias came near the place where they had eaten the bread after the Lord had given thanks. So when the crowd saw that Jesus was not there, nor his disciples, they themselves got into the boats and went to Capernaum, seeking Jesus. — John 6:22-24

So this text explains where the feeding occurred, how Jesus moved, and how people responded to him. But there are some interesting features here. So if you are watching this on video today, I am going to show this on a map. The east side of the lake is the best possible location for feeding the 5000. At this location are a rocky beach and fertile area where people can sit. Above this, to the east, is a rolling mountain range where Jesus retreats. Then the disciples depart in the only boat on location and head out for Capernaum. Now Capernaum is about 5-7 miles by water. But as we know, the wind is against them, preventing the disciples from getting very far. So they cannot sail. They must row because the wind is against them. My assumption is Jesus is watching this all unfold from the mountain. It is late, dark, and windy, and the disciples are getting nowhere. They're exhausted. They are absolutely tanked. They have been rowing for hours. And right at this moment, here comes the Savior. Jesus walks past the 5000, against the wind, and onto the lake. When Jesus meets them, he enters the boat, the wind stops, and according to the author, they instantly appear on the other side of the lake. Meanwhile, as day breaks, the 5000 realize Jesus, the disciples, and the only boat available are gone. At the same time, new boats are landing, probably because the wind has blown them in the eastward direction.

I've got just one question for you today.

Are you exhausted? Are you exhausted by needy people, physical challenges, situational demands, unforeseen circumstances, and natural events you didn't anticipate?

If so, why are you still trying to plan, navigate, and row through these circumstances on your own power? Don't you see, things are easier when Jesus is with you? He can power straight through them instantly.

ASK THIS: Are you exhausted?

DO THIS: Ask God to move the mountain and calm the sea.

PRAY THIS: God, move my mountain and calm the sea of my trouble.

PLAY THIS: God Who Moves The Mountains