Matthew 14:28-31, “‘Lord, if it’s you,’ Peter replied, ‘tell me to come to you on the water.’ ‘Come,’ he said. Then Peter got down out of the boat, walked on the water, and came toward Jesus. But when he saw the wind, he was afraid and, beginning to sink, cried out, ‘Lord, save me!’ Immediately Jesus reached out his hand and caught him. ‘You of little faith,’ he said, ‘why did you doubt?’”
You step onto the ride of life because Jesus called you, and off you go! Finally, you can see beyond the platform of complacency that’s kept you idle for so long. As you keep your eyes on God, you continue rising. Everything seems to be on track and BOOM! Doubt. BOOM! Fear. Your cart comes to a screeching halt – teetering at the edge of the precipice. You can’t go back, and you’re too scared to move forward. Suddenly, your cart lurches ahead and your stomach drops as you scream! Jesus catches you, and you’re safe.
This is exactly what happened in today’s passage. Peter had seen Jesus do the miraculous. Notice that he didn’t question his ability to walk on water and didn’t hesitate to take a massive step of faith. Yet, as the wind grew stronger, Peter’s faith dwindled. Sinking, he cried out, and Jesus rescued him. It was a teachable moment for Peter, which undoubtedly helped his faith soar.
You’ve probably heard the saying: “A faith that has been tested is a faith that can be trusted.” We will all have ups and downs, but as our faith grows stronger, so does our ability to weather each storm if we believe all things are possible through Christ!
On the ride of life, we are always moving through different phases of confidence, doubt, fear, and faith; but Jesus never changes, and He’s with us always. Right now, where are you? Are you stepping out in faith, teetering on the edge of doubt, or falling into the safety of God’s hands? Think about this for a few moments and lift your response up to God in prayer.
Dear Lord, Thank You for Your constant provision and protection. I know that You are always present, no matter where I am or what I face. Increase my faith as I learn to trust You more and more each day. In Jesus’ name, Amen.