Dear Explorer,
Now only Matthew records this event in Peter's life. I assume it happened on that same night when Jesus walked on the water out to the boat of the disciples. Remember, that Matthew is an actual eyewitness to this event.
Read Matthew 14:28-33
Peter seemed to realize that if God could hold Jesus up in the water – then He could hold him up, too. That's what Jesus was trying to teach His disciples – so I know He was pleased with Peter's faith.
We seem to emphasize the next section where Peter began to doubt and began to sink, but I want us to recognize the faith that that would have required. Faith to step out of a boat, in the middle of a lake on a strong windy night. They didn't have search lights to shine to find him, just lanterns. It took incredible faith to jump out of that boat. And he walked on water! We don't know how far – but he did it.
Now, when he took his eyes off Jesus and began to look at his circumstances – the waves crashing taller than his head – he began to sink.
I like Peter's faith. I also like it that he checked with Jesus first before he just jumped in. Look at Matthew 14:28-29. Did Jesus encourage this faith attempt?
Yes, He did! We talk about Peter's lack of faith, but when he began to sink – he knew who to call! I think it was a wonderful start to faith walking!
Now, that's what I want to encourage in you – to begin taking steps of faith. When you hear God telling you to try something new or scary or hard, you need to cast all your worries and fears on Him and jump out of the boat! What is the boat? The safe place where you are, where you feel safe and protected. God may call you to get out of your boat and trust Him in new areas. But make sure you double check that you are hearing the Holy Spirit and not SELF.
Peter gave it a try. He wasn't terribly successful for very long – but at least he gave it a shot. And I believe God was pleased. Your faith will need to grow and the best way to grow it – is to be obedient in the little things. Then step by step your trust will grow.
In His service, dale
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