Matthew 14:28-33(MSG) Peter, suddenly bold, said, “Master, if it’s really you, call me to come to you on the water.” He said, “Come ahead.” Jumping out of the boat, Peter walked on the water to Jesus. But when he looked down at the waves churning beneath his feet, he lost his nerve and started to sink. He cried, “Master, save me!” Jesus didn’t hesitate. He reached down and grabbed his hand. Then he said, “Faint-heart, what got into you?” The two of them climbed into the boat, and the wind died down. The disciples in the boat, having watched the whole thing, worshiped Jesus, saying, “This is it! You are God’s Son for sure!”
When Jesus bid Peter to come to him, he didn’t calm the storm. Instead, he invited Peter out into the storm, into the rough seas. The rebuke of Peter’s lack of faith was because he took his eyes off Jesus and instead focused on the storm. So, the lesson here is to keep your eyes on Jesus, during the storm.
Peace is not found when the waves of life are calm. But Jesus never promised us smooth sailing. He promised to always be with us. Peace is found in the presence of Jesus, even in the middle of a storm. He will always be in the midst of the storm. Isaiah 43:2(NLT) When you go through deep waters, I will be with you.
Psalm 37:5(ESV) Commit your way to the LORD; trust in him, and he will act.
Isaiah 66:9(NCV) “In the same way I will not cause pain without allowing something new to be born,” says the LORD.
Psalm 91:4(NIV) He will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings you will find refuge; his faithfulness will be your shield and rampart.
Jeremiah 29:11(NIV) “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.
Storms threaten to sink our faith, but remember, Jesus is in the midst of the storm. The storm is real and terrifying – the disciples believed they would not survive the storm. But it is not about surviving the storm, it’s about who is in the storm with you. Yes, Jesus is with us during our storms.
“Whether Jesus calms the storm or calms us in the storm, His love is the same, and His grace is enough.” – Sheila Walsh
I conclude that: “You may be facing the storms of life but you can also walk over them. Fix your gaze on Jesus and begin to walk over lack, depression, confusion, sickness and attacks of the enemy. Don’t look at the waves. Don’t focus on who is attacking you or trying to pull you down.” – Past Mensa Otabil