We can often launch into a great adventure, take a bold faith step, start a new job, move across the country, embark on a stretching assignment, begin a new relationship, or start a family with faith enough to walk on water. But, like Peter, we can still allow storms to disrupt our walk and cause us to start to sink. (Matthew 14:22-33)
Initially, we are filled with hope and confidence – we are out of the boat like Peter in the bible. We are on the way to achieving something worthwhile and fulfilling our destiny.
Then we see the storm and feel the wind blowing on our faces. We face obstacles; reality starts to set in, unexpected conflict confronts us, and our strength and resolve are put under pressure. Just as Peter looked at the wind and the waves and became afraid, we could also get scared and feel like we would go under.
But one thing that can make all the difference is to do what Peter did and resolve right then and there to shift our focus off the storm, the wind blowing, the waves crashing, and the fear rising and instead fix our eyes upon Jesus.
Peter's story continues as he chooses to hold on and look at Jesus, who rescued him from the waves. Over time, Jesus taught him how to speak to storms, open blind eyes, heal paralysed limbs, and open prison doors. Peter is the one who walked through the streets, and His shadow falling on the sick would heal them. He is the one who preached to thousands and saw them turn to follow Jesus. He is the one upon who Jesus said, "Now I say to you that you are Peter (which means 'rock'), and upon this rock, I will build my church, and all the powers of hell will not conquer it".
Pretty good for a "water-walking" failure.
(See more about Peter in Matthew 16:18; Acts 2:14-21; 3; 5:15-16; Acts 12:3-19)
Today I encourage you to shift your focus off the storm and any uncertainty and look at Jesus! He's got you and given you the ability and power to silence and overcome any obstacle. Even when you stumble, take heart. Peter looked at the wind and started to sink, yet Jesus reached out his hand and steadied his feet upon the waves again.
Speak to those storms, step out of the boat and choose to be a water walker. Jesus is right there with you!
Prayer: Lord, I thank you that you are always with me and never leave me regardless of the storm. Today I'm determined to keep my eyes fixed on you and your purpose and plan for my life. I walk in victory today in Jesus' name Amen.