🌊 Devotional on John 6:11–20 It Is I; Don’t Be Afraid

Devotional on John 6:11–20 🌊 It Is I; Don’t Be Afraid

📖 Passage: John 6:11–20 (NIV)

11 Jesus then took the loaves, gave thanks, and distributed to those who were seated as much as they wanted. He did the same with the fish.
12 When they had all had enough to eat, he said to his disciples, "Gather the pieces that are left over. Let nothing be wasted."
13 So they gathered them and filled twelve baskets with the pieces of the five barley loaves left over by those who had eaten.
14 After the people saw the sign Jesus performed, they began to say, "Surely this is the Prophet who is to come into the world."
15 Jesus, knowing that they intended to come and make him king by force, withdrew again to a mountain by himself.
16 When evening came, his disciples went down to the lake,
17 where they got into a boat and set off across the lake for Capernaum. By now it was dark, and Jesus had not yet joined them.
18 A strong wind was blowing and the waters grew rough.
19 When they had rowed about three or four miles, they saw Jesus approaching the boat, walking on the water; and they were frightened.
20 But he said to them, "It is I; don't be afraid."
  

🙏 1-Minute Prayer

Lord, help me to listen to Your Word today with a soft and receptive heart. In times of fear or need, let me remember that You are near. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

🔁 Repeated Words or Phrases

• “Jesus” – verses 11, 12, 15, 20
• “pieces” / “left over” – verses 12, 13
• “afraid” – verses 19, 20

🧭 Theme

Jesus is both our abundant provider and our peace in the storm.

🔎 Observing God

• Jesus gives thanks and distributes generously (v.11).
• He values stewardship: “Let nothing be wasted” (v.12).
• He perceives human intentions and resists worldly acclaim (v.15).
• Jesus comes near in the storm, walking on water (v.19).
• He speaks peace: “It is I; don’t be afraid” (v.20).

🧍 Observing Humanity

• The people are amazed by the miracle but seek to make Jesus a political king (v.14–15).
• The disciples obey but are left in the dark, literally and spiritually (v.17).
• They are frightened by Jesus' unexpected approach on the water (v.19).
• Human fear often comes when we lose sight of who Jesus is.

✨ Interpreting God

Jesus reveals Himself not only as the Provider of bread but as the Lord over creation. He resists the crowd’s attempt to redefine His mission, choosing instead the Father’s will. His presence in the storm, walking across the waves, is a profound sign: God comes to us even in our fears. His words, “It is I,” echo God’s name—I AM—bringing peace to every troubled heart. Jesus does not just give us comfort; He is the Comforter.

🪞 Interpreting Humanity

Human beings quickly turn gratitude into control—we receive a miracle and then want to mold God into our image, as seen in the crowd’s attempt to make Jesus king. We also fear the unknown and unexpected, even when it is Jesus Himself coming to us. Our hearts are easily unsettled when we can’t predict or understand, but true peace comes only when we recognize and trust in the One who says, “It is I.”

🛠 Personal Application

What storms are you navigating today? Are you trying to control the outcome, or are you listening for Jesus’ voice? Offer your fears to Him, especially the ones you feel ashamed of. Ask Jesus to reveal Himself to you right where you are. As He comes near, remember: He doesn't just speak peace—He is peace.

💓 Spiritual Touch

“It is I; don’t be afraid.” (v.20)
➤ The same God who fed the crowd now comes walking through the waves of your life—just to reach you.

🙌 Prayer of Faith, Repentance, and Thanksgiving

Jesus, forgive me for the times I tried to fit You into my plans instead of following Yours. Thank You for being near in my storms, for feeding both my body and my soul. Teach me to recognize Your voice and to rest in Your presence. I trust You. Amen.

🚶‍♂️ Walk with Jesus for 24 Hours

Throughout today, whenever you feel anxiety or fear rising, pause and repeat this truth: “Jesus is near. I will not be afraid.” Let His presence calm your heart.