Stepping Out on the Waters

  Immediately He made the disciples get into the boat and go ahead of Him to the other side, while He sent the crowds away.  After He had sent the crowds away, He went up on the mountain by Himself to pray; and when it was evening, He was there alone.  But the boat was already a long distance from the land, battered by the waves; for the wind was contrary. And in the fourth watch of the night He came to them, walking on the sea.  When the disciples saw Him walking on the sea, they were terrified, and said, “It is a ghost!” And they cried out in fear.  But immediately Jesus spoke to them, saying, “Take courage, it is I; do not be afraid.  
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?” When they got into the boat, the wind stopped. And those who were in the boat worshiped Him, saying, “You are certainly God’s Son!”  Matthew 14:22-33



I admit, I like my comfort zone.  I feel safe and secure there. It feels good to be there. Life is cozy as is.  Kind of like when you are laying on a boat on a sunny day and the waves gently rock you to sleep. It feels so amazing and relaxing.

There are times when God lets me stay in that comfort zone.  Other times God asks me to step out of my comfort zone. Usually I don’t mind too much but it can be uncomfortable. Other times He asks me to step out of the boat and onto the water. That seems a bit crazy. Matter of fact, it can be downright terrifying.  It’s easy for my mind to wander and start fearing what could happen if I obey. All the “what if’s” roll through my mind. What He is asking seems impossible. How could I obey? It is in that moment that my gentle Savior calms my heart and reminds me to focus on His eyes alone.

That is where my fear melts away. He is kind and good and wise. He is faithful and almighty. He would never ask me to do something that will be harmful or disastrous to me. It is for my good and for His kingdom. He is trustworthy.  He is safe.

 I choose to remember the words that I have sung many times as a prayer, “Spirit lead me where my trust is without borders. Let me walk upon the waters wherever You would call me. Take me deeper than my feet could ever wander and my faith will be made stronger in the presence of my Savior.” (Oceans by Hillsong)

So, here I go.  With my heart pounding hard, I step out on the water with eyes fixed on my precious Savior.    Lord, I will trust You.


Do not fear, for I am with you; Do not anxiously look about you, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, surely I will help you, Surely I will uphold you with My righteous right hand. Isaiah 41:10


 

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