God’s Children have Faith
As children of God, we have faith. “For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; not as a result of works, so that no one may boast.” (Ephesians 2:8–9)
The Strength of Faith Wavers
However, the strength of our faith varies. I would like to be consistently strong in my faith, looking steadfastly at my Lord, and unwavering in my walk.
HA!
Sometimes I seem able to view the circumstances of my life through a eternal lens, knowing the Lord is there, that He has given me what I need to live a godly life, and that He will bring good out of the events. Other times, I focus on my own issues and feelings, and too often feel sorry for myself, and behave poorly. Alas.
My faith wavers with the waves of life.
I am so grateful God’s Word shows us the fallibility of His people. It encourages me to know I’m not alone in this struggle.
Peter Walked on Water–For a Moment
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?” (Matthew 14:28–31)
Enough Faith
Peter had enough faith to ask Jesus to tell him to come to Him, walking on the water.
Peter had enough faith to get out of the boat.
Peter had enough faith to start walking on the water towards Jesus.
Sinking
But, then, Peter looked at the wind and took his eyes off Jesus.
Once he looked away from Jesus, he became frightened and began to sink.
Enough Faith
But Peter had enough faith to ask the Lord to save him. And the Lord did.
What to Learn and Apply
That could be a story of my life, just with different details. I might start strong and sink later.
What I want to learn—and apply—from this is:
- Always ask the Lord for guidance, for provision.
- Get started, looking to Him.
- Keep going, looking to Him.
- Don’t get distracted by the wind and waves.
What to do
When you are in the midst of wind and waves:
Look to the Lord.
