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The Bible makes it clear that Jesus has power over the elements. It also makes it clear that Jesus has power in the spiritual realm—power to save, power to lead, power to protect. And He is willing to use that power on our behalf. As when the disciples were in the stormy sea, He calmed the waves, so He is willing to bring us salvation and hope today. But in that account, note one short phrase: “…and would have passed by them.” (Mark 6:48) Though He is ready to help us, He waits until we come to Him. “Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” (Matthew 11:28)

From very early in the New Covenant period, we see this requirement to come. “Then went out to him Jerusalem, and all Judaea, and all the region round about Jordan, And were baptized of him in Jordan, confessing their sins.” (Matthew 3:5-6) And it goes on still: “But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.” (Hebrews 11:6)

In Acts, when Peter was healing people, we find that even his shadow healed people. But apparently he did not rush to houses of those that were sick; rather, the people had to do something: “Insomuch that they brought forth the sick into the streets, and laid them on beds and couches, that at the least the shadow of Peter passing by might overshadow some of them.” (Acts 5:15) Sometimes it was the same way for Jesus’ healing.

It is for us to come to Him and access His power. We can’t expect to be healed from our sin problem without coming and submitting to Him, and being willing to do the hard tasks He may require of us.