Battered by the Winds

Matt. 14:24: "But the boat was already many stadia away from the land, battered by the waves; for the wind was contrary." One version says they were tormented by the waves.
     The disciples had had a very full day, at the end of it, Jesus had sent them by boat to the other side, but it was at least 9 hours later and they were still struggling. Some of these were seasoned fishermen! The disciples were faithfully obeying Jesus, but it was hard work and they were being battered, tormented, struggling for all forward progress. They were no doubt tired, yet they persevered.
     How often, in obeying Jesus, do we find ourselves battered, tormented, going against a contrary wind? In our home, in our work, in our school or studies, with our finances, we struggle to do what is right, to be obedient, and we aren't getting very far. Oh, we are making some progress, but it is slow and we are beyond exhausted. We can ask all the why's we can think of: Jesus, You sent us on this trip, why aren't You blessing it? Why aren't we making much progress? Why do I have to go through this rough time? But none of the questions or their answers will ever meet our need. Mostly they just get us out of sorts, cranky. We are to continue doing what He has called us to do; even with the opposition. When we cannot see Jesus, it is imperative we stay faithful to His call or command to us. (The disciples were to go to the other side of the lake)
    This was not satan coming against them, or an enemy; it was just life. It is so easy to get overwhelmed with the curves that come in our lives that we forget,  sometimes just moving forward is all Jesus is asking of us- inch by inch.
     As we feel battered, tormented, pushed by a contrary wind, may we be faithful to what Jesus has called us to do. May we see His hand still leading us, and guiding us in the midst of our difficulties. When we feel like He isn't with us, may we remember that He never leaves us or forsakes us. And may we too, continue in faithful obedience and perseverance in the midst of our own exhaustion, moving forward, even if it is one inch at a time.