Scripture: Matthew 14:22-33
Introduction: In Matthew 14, we encounter a powerful story of faith, courage, and the struggle with doubt. Peter, one of Jesus’ disciples, steps out of a boat and onto the water in the midst of a storm. For a moment, he does the impossible—he walks on water! But as he begins to doubt, he starts to sink. This story teaches us a profound lesson: when we fix our eyes on Jesus, we can overcome life’s storms and doubts.
Today, we’ll explore how Peter’s experience can help us trust in Jesus even when we face uncertainty and fear.
1. Faith that Steps Out of the Boat
“Lord, if it’s you,” Peter replied, “tell me to come to you on the water.” (Matthew 14:28)
The story begins with the disciples on a boat in the middle of a storm. When they see Jesus walking toward them on the water, they are terrified, thinking He is a ghost. But Jesus reassures them, saying, “Take courage! It is I. Don’t be afraid.” Peter responds by asking Jesus to call him out onto the water, a remarkable act of faith. He is willing to step out of the safety of the boat into an unknown and dangerous situation because he trusts Jesus.
Application: Often, God calls us to take a step of faith into situations that feel uncertain. Like Peter, we may face moments where we need to leave our comfort zones and trust in God’s presence. Faith begins when we are willing to take that first step, even when we don’t know the outcome.
2. Keeping Our Eyes on Jesus in the Midst of Storms
“Then Peter got down out of the boat, walked on the water and came toward Jesus.” (Matthew 14:29)
As Peter steps out, he actually begins to walk on water! His faith is strong as he keeps his eyes on Jesus, focusing on His presence rather than the storm around him. Peter’s ability to walk on water wasn’t due to his own strength or abilities; it was because he trusted in Jesus.
Application: In our own lives, we often encounter storms—situations that challenge our faith. The key to overcoming them is to keep our focus on Jesus rather than on the waves around us. By spending time in prayer, reading Scripture, and remembering God’s promises, we can maintain our focus and draw strength from His presence.
3. The Danger of Doubt and Fear
“But when he saw the wind, he was afraid and, beginning to sink, cried out, ‘Lord, save me!’” (Matthew 14:30)
As Peter walks toward Jesus, he shifts his gaze from the Lord to the waves and wind around him. In that moment, fear overtakes him, and he begins to sink. Peter’s faith was strong enough to carry him across the water, but doubt weakened him. Yet, even in his moment of doubt, Peter calls out to Jesus for help.
Application: Doubt and fear are natural human responses, but they can cause us to lose sight of Jesus and sink into anxiety or despair. When we feel overwhelmed, the best thing we can do is call out to Jesus. He is always there, ready to lift us up when we reach out to Him.
4. Jesus’ Immediate Response to Our Cries for Help
“Immediately Jesus reached out his hand and caught him. ‘You of little faith,’ he said, ‘why did you doubt?’” (Matthew 14:31)
Jesus doesn’t hesitate. The moment Peter calls out, Jesus reaches down and pulls him out of the water. While Jesus does address Peter’s doubt, He also demonstrates His compassion and willingness to help. Jesus didn’t wait for Peter to struggle; He responded immediately.
Application: Jesus is ready to help us the moment we call out to Him. Even when our faith falters, He responds with grace and strength. Let’s remember that we are never too far gone for Jesus to reach us. In our moments of weakness, He is our strength and support.
5. The Power of God’s Presence and the Testimony of Faith
“And when they climbed into the boat, the wind died down. Then those who were in the boat worshiped him, saying, ‘Truly you are the Son of God.’” (Matthew 14:32-33)
After Jesus saves Peter, they climb back into the boat together, and the storm calms. This experience leads the disciples to a deeper understanding of who Jesus is, prompting them to worship and declare, “Truly, you are the Son of God.” Through this test of faith, their understanding of Jesus’ power and love deepens.
Application: When we see God work in our lives, even through our struggles, it strengthens our faith and allows us to share our testimony with others. Our experiences of God’s faithfulness can encourage others to trust Him as well. Let’s be willing to share how God has helped us in our storms, so others may see His love and power.
Conclusion: Peter’s journey on the water reminds us that faith is about trusting Jesus in the midst of life’s storms. While doubts and fears may arise, we can overcome them by keeping our focus on Him. Jesus is always ready to help, lifting us up when we call on Him. His presence in our lives not only gives us courage but also reveals His power to those around us.
Closing Prayer: Lord, thank You for Your faithfulness and love. Help us to have faith like Peter, willing to step out in trust, even in uncertain times. When we face life’s storms and our faith falters, remind us to keep our eyes on You. Strengthen our hearts, that we may experience Your presence and power in every challenge. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
