Study Lesson — Matthew 14:22-33
Can you imagine what went through Peter’s mind when he looked out into the stormy sea and saw Jesus walking on the water?
This Bible lesson from Matthew is about faith and hope when times are hard.
Jesus walking on water is a miracle in itself but, when Peter did it, the power of God became evident.
When we “sink” in life because of our situation, let’s remember that Christ saved Peter and He will save us too.
Peter and Jesus Walk on Water
Immediately He made the disciples get into the boat and go ahead of Him to the other side, while He sent the crowds away.
After He had sent the crowds away, He went up on the mountain by Himself to pray; and when it was evening, He was there alone.
But the boat was already a long distance from the land, battered by the waves; for the wind was contrary.
And in the fourth watch of the night He came to them, walking on the sea.
When the disciples saw Him walking on the sea, they were terrified, and said, “It is a ghost!” And they cried out in fear.
But immediately Jesus spoke to them, saying, “Take courage, it is I; do not be afraid.”
Peter said to Him, “Lord, if it is You, command me to come to You on the water.”
And He said, “Come!” And Peter got out of the boat, and walked on the water and came toward Jesus.
But seeing the wind, he became frightened, and beginning to sink, he cried out, “Lord, save me!”
Immediately Jesus stretched out His hand and took hold of him, and *said to him, “You of little faith, why did you doubt?”
When they got into the boat, the wind stopped.
And those who were in the boat worshiped Him, saying, “You are certainly God’s Son!” – Matthew 14:22-33 NASB
A Story of Faith – Who Do We Look To?
First, a question of faith for you and I.
When we are in turbulent times and are at the end of reasoning for our troubles, do we focus on the trouble or keep our eyes upon Jesus (yes, this is a hymn)?
Peter’s Faith
Peter had faith enough to say to Jesus; “Lord, if it is You, command me to come to You on the water.”
But, his faith faltered when he saw the trouble around him. He began to sink.
How about Our Faith?
Many times, even though we believe in Christ and try to follow His teachings of hope, we begin to see all the tribulations and worries in our lives too.
These circumstances might come in the form of physical illness, either our own, or through a loved one.
Or, as the economy continues to dwindle and the jobless rate soars, the situation might be financial such as the threat of foreclosure of a home or loss of a job.
We feel helpless during these times — IF we focus on the crisis.
Focus on Christ
I know it’s sometimes difficult to do but pray about your situation.
Ask God to give you answers and compassion and He’ll know what to do. Trust that there is no event too big for God.
I’ll repeat–
There is no event or situation too big for God to handle.
He may not always answer exactly the way we expect but His solution will always be in our best interest.
Outlook Vs. Up Look
[easyazon_image align=”left” height=”160″ identifier=”0310340756″ locale=”US” src=”https://makingchristknown.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/51KFnvbo4BL.SL160.jpg” tag=”bobpardphot-20″ width=”111″]If things don’t look good on the downside, look up and pray. Things always look better on the upside!
Jesus walked on the water. He saved Peter when he began to sink. He can certainly do the same for you and me.
Next time, let’s try to look through the problem and we will discover that God is ready and waiting to help us.
Love In Christ
– Bob
If you would like to learn more about how to receive the love and life-changing experience of Jesus Christ, please take a moment to read John 3:16 .