In Matthew 14:27-32, we see the true character of one of my favorite disciples, Peter. The minute Jesus identifies Himself to the disciples, Peter is eager to join Him. In verse 28, Peter says, “Lord, if it’s you, tell me to come to you on the water.” Peter wasn’t saying, “Wow, I want to walk on water too.” He was asking the Lord to call him forth, because he knew if Jesus spoke it, it would happen.
Do you believe that? Do you believe if God speaks it, then it is so? If you do, does your life reflect that belief? There are so many truths in the Word we don’t embrace. There are so many promises given to us in the Word we don’t receive. Why?
Jesus answers Peter in one simple word, “Come.” It was then Peter had to put his faith into action. He asked Jesus for something and Jesus delivered. Now it was time for Peter to walk it out…literally. At this point, the storm is still raging and the wind is still howling, but verse 29 tells us, “Peter got down out of the boat, walked on water and came toward Jesus.” I love Peter’s spunk.
Then Peter made a fatal mistake…one we are all guilty of from time to time. He took his eyes off of Jesus and put them on the wind and waves…his circumstances. When Peter changed his focus, he began to sink. He called out the 911 prayer we’ve all prayed before, “Lord, save me!” Verse 31 tells us IMMEDIATELY Jesus caught him. Jesus is for us and not against us [Romans 8:31]. He has plans to prosper us, not to harm us [Jeremiah 29:11]. He came to be the Savior of the world.
Jesus looks at Peter and says, “You of little faith, why did you doubt?” Now I don’t believe Jesus was shaking his index finger at Peter when He said those words. In fact, I love how the Message puts it, “What got into you?” I believe Jesus was conveying to Peter, “Man, I love you. You should have known I wouldn’t let you get hurt. You’re mine.” Do you believe you’re His? Do you believe He has your back? He went to the cross to demonstrate His love for you. Oh, how he loved you.
Finally, in verse 32, we’re told Jesus climbed into the boat and the storm ceased. Wherever Jesus is, there is peace. It may not make sense to those who do not know Him, but it is our reality as believers. With Jesus living in our heart, we are guaranteed His peace. When we fix our eyes on Him and not our circumstances [John 14:27], we experience the peace that surpasses all understanding [Philippians 4:7] and we discover real treasure.
This passage of Scripture reminds me of an old hymn we used to sing in church growing up:
“Turn your eyes upon Jesus
Look full in His wonderful face
And the things of this earth will grow strangely dim
In light of His glory and grace.”
Will you?