“But Jesus immediately said to them: ‘Take courage! It is I. Don’t be afraid.’” – Matthew 14:27
Faith in Our Steps
When we look at Peter walking on water, we see a powerful example of faith in action. In life, stepping out of our comfort zone can be daunting, but with faith, we can achieve the extraordinary. Just like Peter, we are called to trust in Jesus, to take steps in His direction—even if that means walking on water. We might face moments of doubt, but Jesus reminds us to stay courageous and focused on Him. Our faith can carry us over any stormy sea.
Matthew 14:29
“‘Come,’ he said. Then Peter got down out of the boat, walked on the water and came toward Jesus.” – Matthew 14:29
Hebrews 11:1
“Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.” – Hebrews 11:1
James 1:6
“But when you ask, you must believe and not doubt, because the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind.” – James 1:6
Mark 10:27
“Jesus looked at them and said, ‘With man this is impossible, but not with God; all things are possible with God.'” – Mark 10:27
Philippians 4:13
“I can do all this through him who gives me strength.” – Philippians 4:13
Overcoming Doubt
In our lives, doubt can creep in just like the winds that surrounded Peter while he walked on the water. Even when we try to focus on Jesus, we might find ourselves faltering. Yet, it is in these moments that we can cry out to Him for help. Jesus is always ready to reach out and steady us when we feel we are sinking. Our faith can help push back against doubt and uncertainty.
Matthew 14:30
“But when he saw the wind, he was afraid and, beginning to sink, cried out, ‘Lord, save me!’” – Matthew 14:30
Romans 10:17
“Consequently, faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word about Christ.” – Romans 10:17
John 20:27
“Then he said to Thomas, ‘Put your finger here; see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it into my side. Stop doubting and believe.'” – John 20:27
Proverbs 3:5
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.” – Proverbs 3:5
2 Corinthians 5:7
“For we walk by faith, not by sight.” – 2 Corinthians 5:7
Jesus’ Power Over Nature
The story of Peter walking on water reminds us of the immense power that resides in Jesus. He not only calmed the waters but also defied the laws of nature. When we acknowledge Jesus’ power, we can find peace in the storms of life. We lean on the One who commands the waves, giving us strength to face any challenge that comes our way.
Matthew 14:32
“And when they climbed into the boat, the wind died down.” – Matthew 14:32
Mark 4:39
“He got up, rebuked the wind and said to the waves, ‘Quiet! Be still!’ Then the wind died down and it was completely calm.” – Mark 4:39
Psalm 89:9
“You rule over the surging sea; when its waves mount up, you still them.” – Psalm 89:9
Luke 8:25
“Where is your faith?’ he asked his disciples. In fear and amazement they asked one another, ‘Who is this? He commands even the winds and the water, and they obey him.'” – Luke 8:25
Isaiah 43:2
“When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you.” – Isaiah 43:2
Growth Through Trials
Every experience we go through teaches us something. For Peter, walking on water was not just about the miracle; it was a lesson that deepened his faith. We too can reflect on our trials and see where we have grown in our faith. When we face challenges, we should remember that they can shape us into stronger followers of Christ.
Romans 5:3-4
“Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.” – Romans 5:3-4
James 1:2-3
“Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.” – James 1:2-3
1 Peter 1:6-7
“In all this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials. These have come so that the proven genuineness of your faith…may result in praise, glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed.” – 1 Peter 1:6-7
2 Timothy 3:12
“In fact, everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted.” – 2 Timothy 3:12
Philippians 1:29
“For it has been granted to you on behalf of Christ not only to believe in him but also to suffer for him.” – Philippians 1:29
Encouragement from the Community
As we reflect on Peter’s adventurous moment, we realize he was not alone in the boat. His fellow disciples watched as he stepped out in faith. Community plays an essential role in our faith journeys. We should encourage and support one another as we take risks and step out for Christ. Together, we can inspire one another to walk boldly on water.
Hebrews 10:24-25
“And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another.” – Hebrews 10:24-25
Galatians 6:2
“Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” – Galatians 6:2
Romans 1:12
“That is, that you and I may be mutually encouraged by each other’s faith.” – Romans 1:12
Proverbs 27:17
“As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.” – Proverbs 27:17
Acts 2:42
“They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.” – Acts 2:42
Jesus’ Call to Boldness
Peter’s story calls us to live boldly. Jesus invites us to step out beyond our limitations. He calls us to trust He will catch us when we inevitably stumble. Our faith is upheld by the awareness that we have a Savior who desires us to take courageous steps. Jesus stands ready to empower our boldness as we venture into the unknown.
Matthew 28:19
“Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.” – Matthew 28:19
Joshua 1:9
“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” – Joshua 1:9
Philippians 1:20
“I eagerly expect and hope that I will in no way be ashamed, but will have sufficient courage so that now as always Christ will be exalted in my body, whether by life or by death.” – Philippians 1:20
1 John 4:18
“There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love.” – 1 John 4:18
Proverbs 28:1
“The wicked flee though no one pursues, but the righteous are as bold as a lion.” – Proverbs 28:1
Final Thoughts
As we have seen through Peter’s incredible experience on the water, faith is not just a place we visit; it is a journey we walk. We are often faced with challenges, doubt, and storms, but Christ is always there, ready to lift us up. Just like Peter, we can grow stronger through our trials, and we don’t have to do this alone. Our community of believers supports us, encouraging us to take bold steps towards our dreams.
By understanding and embracing our faith, we can look beyond our limitations, tackling whatever life throws our way. We can remind each other that even in the fear of failure, Jesus calls us to step out of the boat, trust Him, and embrace the incredible life He offers.
Let us go forth with our heads held high, knowing that He empowers our steps in faith. If you want to reflect more, consider exploring topics like pushing forward and taking risks. Every step in faith matters!