The Fourth Watch

"And in the fourth watch of the night Jesus went unto them, walking on the sea". 

Matthew 14:25 (KJV)

The disciples had been rowing against a terrifying storm for hours. They weren't just "worried"; they were physically exhausted and likely losing hope. Jesus didn't come in the first watch when they were still fresh, or even in the second when they started to get tired. He waited until the "fourth watch"—that darkest, coldest window of time between 3:00 AM and 6:00 AM, right before dawn. 

We often feel that if God hasn't answered by now, He isn't coming at all. We may think the delay is a sign of His absence, but the fourth watch is actually where the miracle is most powerful. He waits until our strength is completely gone so that when He steps onto the waves, we know beyond a shadow of a doubt that it was Him.

Just because it feels "late" in your situation doesn't mean it’s too late for the Savior. Do not allow the darkness of your "fourth watch" to convince you that the storm has won the battle. 

Spiritual maturity is found in the believer who keeps rowing in obedience even when the shore isn't visible yet. Strengthening your walk involves a daily trust that He is watching you from the heights and will step onto your waves at the perfect moment of your greatest need. When He walks on the water, He proves that the very thing you are afraid of—the storm—is just a sidewalk for Him to reach you. Let your soul hold on until dawn. Yield your "fear of the dark" to the Lord of the fourth watch today.

Arrow Prayer

Father, I thank You that Your eyes remain upon me even in the darkest and most exhausting seasons of my life. In Jesus' name. Amen.