Walking on Water

The man was respected, considered spiritually mature, a model Believer. An admirer even observed that this man could “walk on water.”

In the modern lexicon, this describes someone who does extraordinary things when facing difficulties, standing out from the crowd. For example, a major magazine used this phrase to describe a popular politician. It also was used as the title of a recent film and an episode of a popular television program.

The reference point is the moment when Jesus walked on the Sea of Galilee, demonstrating His power over nature. But our thoughts immediately turn to Peter who wanted to know if he, too, could walk on water. When Jesus said “Come,” Peter “got out of the boat.”

While he focused on Jesus, Peter did what seemed impossible, actually walking on water. But when he started focusing on the wind, “he became frightened” and began to sink. When he cried out, Jesus reached out His hand to save him. He also told Peter, “You of little faith, why did you doubt?”

When Peter became distracted and afraid, he took his eyes off of Jesus. But even in his failure, he provides an example for us. In reality, we are all like Peter. Often distracted. Imperfect. Impulsive. Yet, as Peter demonstrated, with our eyes on Jesus we can do extraordinary things. But doubt can block His miracles.

In your life, don’t be weighed down by doubt or distracted by the things around you. Focus on Jesus. As He leads, be ready to step “out of the boat,” with faith that, eyes on Him, you can “walk on water.”