Matthew 14:31 NKJV — And immediately Jesus stretched out His hand and caught him, and said to him, “O you of little faith, why did you doubt?”
This story of Peter walking on the water to Jesus is rich with applicable lessons.
The disciples are crossing the sea, because Jesus had sent them.
Things get difficult.
Matthew 14:24 NKJV — But the boat was now in the middle of the sea, tossed by the waves, for the wind was contrary.
As they are struggling, Jesus is walking towards them.
Matthew 14:25 NKJV — Now in the fourth watch of the night Jesus went to them, walking on the sea.
Their reaction is understandable.
Matthew 14:26 NKJV — And when the disciples saw Him walking on the sea, they were troubled, saying, “It is a ghost!” And they cried out for fear.
Walking on water isn’t a thing anyone does.
Jesus understands, he’s not laughing at them, nor does he downplay their fear, but compassionately calls to them.
Matthew 14:27 NKJV — But immediately Jesus spoke to them, saying, “Be of good cheer! It is I; do not be afraid.”
Peter’s response is surprising, but his faith is incredible.
Matthew 14:28 NKJV — And Peter answered Him and said, “Lord, if it is You, command me to come to You on the water.”
Jesus is always desiring for us to come to him.
Matthew 14:29 NKJV — So He said, “Come.” And when Peter had come down out of the boat, he walked on the water to go to Jesus.
Peter’s faith is seen in his actions.
But when he takes his eyes off Jesus doubt snares him.
Matthew 14:30 NKJV — But when he saw that the wind was boisterous, he was afraid; and beginning to sink he cried out, saying, “Lord, save me!”
Although, doubt began to sink him, Peter’s focus returns to Jesus.
Matthew 14:31 NKJV — And immediately Jesus stretched out His hand and caught him, and said to him, “O you of little faith, why did you doubt?”
Jesus catches him, saves him, and admonished him.
Doubt is flung at the believer in a million different ways, but we must keep our eyes focused on Christ.
Matthew 14:32 NKJV — And when they got into the boat, the wind ceased.
Because Jesus is capable of calming any storm.
Dear Lord Jesus,
Thank You for Your Word. Thank You for this story. Lord, I want to have faith like Peter, to willingly step out of those things I see as “safe” or “comfort” to draw nearer to You. Lord, I see the dangers of doubt. Please guard my heart and mind. Help me to recognize the snares of doubt and to avoid them. Lord, please continue to teach me wisdom. I know there’s a difference from following You and going my own way. Lord, I know I’ve stepped out of Your will while believing I was doing it “for You”, when in reality I was doing what I thought was best. Lord, I don’t want to do that anymore. I want to be 100% Your servant, surrendered to Your will each day. Thank You for Your patience. Thank You for Your faithfulness and salvation. Thank You for Your peace. I love You, Jesus. Amen.
patientlyhopeful 