When I say the name “Peter,” what comes to your mind? The apostle Peter’s character shines abundantly in the Gospel records. I believe this to be true because Peter was not afraid to speak his mind. There are times when he got it right (“You are the Christ, the son of the living God,” Matthew 16:16), and there were times when he got it wrong (“Far be it from you, Lord; this shall not happen to you!” Matthew 16:22). Regardless, he forcibly gave his input.
One day, Jesus sent the apostles across the Sea of Galilee by boat (Matthew 14:22-33). He stayed to send away the multitudes and to pray on the mountain. The hour got late. Jesus began to walk across the water to meet the apostles on the other side of the sea. He would have passed them, but they cried out in fear. They believed Jesus to be a ghost. Jesus called to them, trying to comfort them by revealing His identity. Peter set out a challenge, “Lord, if it is you, command me to come to you on the water.” Jesus replied, “Come.” Peter left the boat and walked on the water toward Jesus. After some time, Peter noticed the storm that surrounded him. Peter began to sink into the water. Jesus reached down to grab his hand. Jesus responded, “O you of little faith, why did you doubt?” Jesus and Peter entered the boat. The other apostles worshipped Jesus.
What can we learn? (1) Peter was the only person willing to leave the boat. Why did the others not leave the boat? Maybe they were afraid. It could be they wanted to see what would happen to Peter. Whatever the case, Peter was the only one of the apostles to walk on the water. We can accomplish great things when we are willing to trust God and get out of the boat. (2) Jesus was in the same storm as the apostles. On this occasion, He was not in the same boat; nevertheless, Jesus was still near them. He called out to them to calm their fear. Peter turned his attention to Jesus and away from the storm. His focus allowed him to walk on water. We feel like God does not care about our troubles, but He watches over us. (3) Peter weathered the storm until he took his eyes off Jesus and placed them on the storm. Difficulties in life seem monstrous. They may even bring individuals to the brink of despair. These difficult situations obscure our focus on Jesus. However, God is not swayed by the presence of difficulties. When God is the focal point of our lives, obstacles become manageable.
The storms of life cause us much difficulty. Doubt, fear and disbelief strive to overwhelm us. We can weather the storm by focusing on Jesus. May our prayer be, “Lord, help us to not lose sight of You!”
