Between three and six o’clock in the morning, Jesus came to them, walking on the water. Peter said, “Lord, if it is really you, then command me to come to you on the water.” Jesus said,
“Come.” And Peter left the boat and walked on the water to Jesus. But when Peter saw the wind and the waves, he became afraid and began to sink. He shouted, “Lord, save me!”Immediately Jesus reached out his hand and caught Peter. Jesus said, “Your faith is small. Why did you doubt?”
Matthew 14:25, 28-31 (NCV)
When Jesus calls us to step out on the water, sometimes we choose to stay on the shore. We may dip our toes in the water but there’s no trust, and without faith, we walk away with nothing more than sand between our toes. Sometimes, we trust Jesus just enough to get INTO the boat, as long as the vessel remains tied to the dock. But when we are out on the sea and the storm approaches, that sense of security vanishes quickly. We hunker down and long for the safety of the shore. Sometimes, we are like Peter. We step out with great faith and trust Jesus completely—until something distracts us and draws our attention away from Him. When we lose our focus on Him, the waves overpower and we sink quickly.
Jesus is looking for water-walkers! He’s looking for those whose hearts are fully committed and fully connected to Him. The water-walkers are the ones who will step out on the water knowing that He alone holds them steady and keeps them secure. The waves may splash a bit, but their only power is to drench, not drown.
Jesus is aware of your struggle and your fear. His goal isn’t your suffering; His goal is your growth. When you take your eyes off of Him and look around at your problems, you’ll always go under. But when you trust Him, even in the middle of a storm, your faith grows and your testimony becomes powerful. So when Jesus calls you to step out on the water, will you trust Him? You will never grow spiritually just by dipping your toes in the water. So lock eyes with your Savior, boldly step out on the water, and walk on! You are loved!