He said,“Come.”So Peter got out of the boat and walked on the water and came to Jesus. But when he saw the wind,he was afraid, and beginning to sink he cried out, “Lord, save me.” (Matthew 14:29-30)
Jesus told His disciples to cross the lake in their boat as He would follow later. A heavy storm threatened to capsize the boat; in the chaos they saw someone walking on the water toward them, and they panicked exclaiming, “it is a ghost!”
Perhaps something similar has happened to you. Initially totally confident, then suddenly the rug was pulled out from under you, and you lost control of your life. It is a terrifying experience.
Imagine the relief when the disciples saw that it was Jesus coming toward their boat. In faith Peter stepped out of the boat and began to walk toward Jesus when suddenly he saw the wind and was afraid. “Jesus immediately reached out his hand” to save him. Jesus lovingly rebuked him.
Like Peter, we need to learn the lesson over and over: it isn’t our faith that holds us up—it is the power of Jesus. We can always count on His strength, regardless of the situation. Jesus’ action in the storm resulted in worship as Peter and his companions said, “Truly you are the Son of God.” (Matthew 14:33)
When life has been difficult, how has Jesus met your need? Are you trusting Him today?
Image by Lumo Project Films – www.lumoproject.com.