Jump In!

     We talked a little bit about the disciples and their varied personalities a few days ago. Peter was impetuous, spontaneous, often acting and speaking before thinking. Did you know he took a leap of faith and jumped right out of the boat when he saw Jesus walking on the water? Peter spotted Jesus and asked Him to let him come to Him.  Jesus answered:

“Come,” He said. Then Peter got down out of the boat and walked on the water and came toward Jesus. Matthew 14:29

     When Peter heard Jesus’ command, he obeyed immediately with no hesitation and the power of Christ was with him. What happens next is a lesson to all of us as believers, as we jump in to obey the calling of Christ on our lives.

But when he saw the wind, he was afraid , beginning to sink, cried out, “Lord, save me!” Matthew 14:30

     When we find ourselves in circumstances that bring fear and doubt, grief and questions, we long to remain fixed on Jesus, keeping our minds and emotions in check as we continue to trust, to obey and to have faith in the One who saved us. But even when our eyes move away, even in the days we believe we are sinking, when our eyes move from Jesus to the overwhelming odds against us, listen to what Jesus does.

Immediately Jesus reached out His hand and caught him. “You of little faith,” he said, “why did you doubt?” And when they climbed into the boat the wind died down.  Matthew 14:31-32

     When Peter doubted and began to sink, did Jesus let him flounder around in his doubt and fear? No, immediately, Jesus reached out His hand and caught Him. When the doubts arise and the deep waters are rising, call out for your Savior. He is faithful and trustworthy. He will never leave you nor forsake you.

     Focus your gaze on Him. His strong and mighty right hand is there to pick you up, time after time. He will save you from drowning in the swirling waters of despair, of grief, of doubt, of hopelessness. He is the God of hope and new beginnings. When He says, "Come," jump out of the boat. If the water gets too deep or the winds begin to rise, He will be there immediately.

Dear Father in heaven,

Forgive our doubt and our fear. Help us in our unbelief. When the winds die down and the storms subside, You are right beside us in the boat. You’ve been there all along. Keep our eyes and hearts fixed on You in the midst of it all.

In Jesus name,

Amen