Sometimes our worst fears are a direct consequence of our worst choices. But many times we are afraid even when we are doing the right thing.

This happened to disciples of Jesus. One night Jesus told them to get in a boat and go on ahead of him. The boat ride wasn’t their idea, but they did as Jesus said. Then a huge storm came up. They were terrified, but when Jesus came walking toward them on the water he said, “Take courage! It is I. Don’t be afraid.” Jesus did not alter what was scaring them, but he changed their perspective on what was happening.

When we’re in frightening circumstances, usually it’s not the circumstances that need to change, but our understanding of the circumstances. That’s why Jesus tells us, “Take courage! It is I. Don’t be afraid.”