Wednesday, March 18, 2026

Bible in a Year: Psalms 102-104 | Hebrews 9

Even when you're not alone, it can sometimes be lonely.

Recently, I sat with someone close to me, sharing my feelings and hoping for understanding and comfort.

A few days later, I brought it up again, but they looked at me like I was speaking Ancient Greek.

They didn't remember what I'd trusted them with. I felt unseen, unheard, and alone.

When I picked up today’s reading from Mark 6, the verses 47–50 about the disciples rowing and rowing but getting absolutely nowhere felt so familiar.

They weren't isolated, yet they were exhausted, afraid, and overwhelmed.

Sometimes that's us too—surrounded by people, yet struggling, tired, and wondering if anyone really sees what we’re carrying.

Still, this section of Scripture reveals something beautiful by connecting us to its deeper message.

Mark 6:50b-51a
But Jesus spoke to them at once. “Don’t be afraid,” he said. “Take courage! I am here!” Then he climbed into the boat, and the wind stopped.

Jesus didn’t shout encouragement from the shore; instead, he met them right where they were, stepped into the boat, and quieted the wind and waves around them.

Yet, as we read on, we see their hearts were still hardened (Mark 6:52). Perhaps they were too overwhelmed, hurt, or distracted to fully grasp what was happening.

How often is that true for us?

When life has worn you down or you've been misunderstood too many times, it's easy to become guarded.

These guards can make you numb to the miracles happening right in front of you.

If that's you today, I invite you: take a bold step and say yes to Jesus. Embrace the opportunity to lift your eyes, trust him even when it's hard, and remember you follow a God who walks on water. Choose to open your heart, reflect on the stories of what he's done, and let your faith grow in what he still does.

He doesn't leave us alone or abandon us to the wind and struggle; instead, he comes close, bringing peace and speaking courage into our fear.

And even now, though Jesus is not physically in a boat beside us, his presence is still real. Through the Holy Spirit, he is near, and with us in every storm we're rowing through.

You’re seen, heard, and never alone—so take heart and step forward with him today.

Questions:
Is there something you’ve been carrying that you’ve stopped talking about because you felt unheard?

In what ways might your heart feel tired, guarded, or hardened right now?

How does it change your perspective to remember that Jesus steps into the storm with you? 

Next Steps:
This week, write down one thing that feels heavy, confusing, or exhausting right now. Be honest. God already knows—it’s okay for you to say it.

If possible, choose one trusted person and let them know what you’re going through. You don’t have to carry everything alone.

Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank you for seeing me, stepping into my storms, and never leaving me to struggle on my own. Soften my heart when it becomes tired or guarded. Help me recognize your presence, even when life feels loud and confusing. Remind me that you are near and that I don’t have to be afraid. I love you, I trust you, and I worship you. Amen.

This post was written by Lori Tuckerman, Director of Content for the Daily LivingItOut.