Treading on Problems by Martin

They had witnessed a miracle they didn’t understand; now they were about to observe another they wouldn’t comprehend.

What do you do with thousands of hungry people who come to hear your boss speak? Especially when you forgot to have a meal catered? And when you know some of them have ulterior motives for being there? You ask his advice, do what he says, and leave the rest to him. Which is what the disciples did. 

But Jesus’ ability to trample on problems didn’t stop there. No sooner had the disciples set sail for a nearby city than a fierce storm arose. Gale force winds tossed the boat, and fat waves crawled across the bow. When they were at their wit’s end, Jesus came walking on the water. He stepped onto the boat, stilled the storm, and immediately placed them at their destination. Once again, a problem treader. 

Suddenly they saw Jesus walking on the water toward the boat. They were terrified, but he called out to them, “Don’t be afraid. I am here!” (John 6:19-20 NLT)

Problems aren’t problems when viewed through faith’s lenses. Feeding thousands with meager scraps, walking on water, calming a storm…they weren’t problems for the Universe’s Master. Neither are my puny life issues that seem insurmountable to me. Faith will always diminish their size and intensity. 

God can even take my faith tests and transform them into opportunities. What the disciples witnessed built their faith and gave them stories to testify about. When Jesus treads on my problems, it does the same for me. My so called problems are always under God’s authority, and he’s always on top of things…water, food, clothing, a home. Whatever constitutes necessities for me.

When it appears your problems have mounted you, let God do a little treading on them.

Prayer: Give us the faith dear Lord to trust You in all situations, even when they appear useless, confusing, and unbearable. 


Martin Wiles is a “preacher’s kid,” author, speaker, and freelance writer and editor currently living in Greenwood, South Carolina. He and his wife Michelle are founders of Love Lines From God, a devotional ministry that helps those who want to enhance their spiritual journey with Christ. His latest book, Grits & Grace & God, is available at Amazon.