The latest Bible study lesson covered Matthew 14:22-33. I have taught this lesson as a children’s teacher over the years and it has always fascinated me.
As our Bible study leader said, don’t miss the reason for this event. In a brief summary, Jesus had just fed the 5,000 men (not including women and children). He sent his disciples on to the other side of the body of water, as He went up onto the mountain to pray. Jesus sought communion with God through prayer all the time.
As the disciples rowed, great waves began to come forth and beat against them. They struggled to keep moving in the direction they were headed. In the “fourth watch of the night,” Jesus came to them walking on the water. Of course, they were frightened thinking He was a ghost. Jesus replied, “Take heart; It is I. Do not be afraid.”
Act first, think later Peter answered Jesus and said, “Lord, if it is you, command me to come to you on the water.” Jesus said, “Come.”
Immediately Peter jumped out of the boat and began to walk toward Jesus. Then he took his eyes off of Jesus and saw the wind blowing fiercely around. At this point, Peter began to sink into the water. Jesus immediately reached out His hand and lifted Peter up. The words “O you of little faith, why did you doubt?” must have stung Peter’s soul. Jesus and Peter returned to the boat with the other disciples.
This event teaches us many things. The main reason for this event’s inclusion in the Bible is to show that Jesus is Lord over all creation and can defy any gravity. Jesus is God as He continued to show the disciples over and over. We can’t overlook this fact that Jesus is relaying to us through His walking on water.
The secondary storyline is Peter. Now some would fault him for being so spontaneous, but I give Peter credit. At least he had enough courage to get out of the boat while the other 11 stayed in the boat. If he had just kept his eyes focused on Jesus, he would not have sunk.
I don’t know about you, but sometimes the “Peter effect” creeps into my life from time to time. I can have the courage to step out in faith on something but then begin to falter when opposition comes up against me. I take my eyes off of the One Who called me to be courageous and begin to see the brewing storm. Thankfully, with spiritual maturity, the steady eyes on Jesus are becoming more fixed on Him with less and less wavering. He has been faithful in the large and small events of my life. Why should I doubt Him now?
I trust that this Bible event can strengthen your spiritual walk too. Jesus is the same yesterday, today and tomorrow. He is fully reliable!
Gail loves the Lord most of all. She delights in her calling to be a wife to Ed Malick and a mother to seven children and grandmother of 19. Ed is the sixth generation on the homestead family farm in Ypsilanti Township, Michigan.
Seeds of Hope
Following the coronation of Edward the Sixth, a large procession began to make its way to the banquet hall to celebrate the historic event. In front of the king and leading the procession were three soldiers carrying swords that represented the countries of England, Scotland and Wales. “Stop,” protested Edward. “There is one more sword that should be with them. It is the Bible, the sword of the Spirit.” At his suggestion, a Bible was located and placed at the head of the procession.
What a wonderful expression of the rightful place for the Word of God – at the beginning of any journey. If we want our lives to move in the right direction, we must always follow the guidance we find in His Word. Yet how often do we rush ahead with our own plans? If we want to be certain that we are going where He wants us to go, we must always let His instructions lead us.
Beginning each day immersed in God’s Word invites His presence into every moment that follows. Ending the day with reflection on His truth brings comfort that quiets anxious thoughts and gives restful sleep throughout the night.
No matter your journey, let the Bible lead the procession of your life.
Today’s Prayer: Lord, we know that your Word is a lamp for our feet and a light for our paths. May we always look for guidance from the Bible. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Today’s Scripture: Study this Book of Instruction continually. Meditate on it day and night so you will be sure to obey everything written in it. Only then will you prosper and succeed in all you do.
Joshua 1:8
This article originally appeared on Farmers Advance: Jesus is the same yesterday, today and tomorrow
Reporting by Gail Malick, Farmers’ Advance / Farmers Advance
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
