How can you apply the lesson from Matthew 14:26 to your daily faith? Setting the Scene In the dark of night, the disciples are rowing against rough waves. Suddenly they see a figure walking on the water—something no human can do. Their immediate response? Terror. What the Verse Says “When the disciples saw Him walking on the sea, they were terrified. ‘It’s a ghost!’ they said, and cried out in fear.” (Matthew 14:26) Key Takeaways for Today • Fear often rises when Jesus shows up in a way we don’t expect. • Our senses can mislead us; God’s presence can look unfamiliar. • Jesus does not rebuke the disciples for noticing the impossible; He addresses their fear (see v. 27). • Honest cries of distress are heard by the Lord. Stepping Into Daily Life 1. Acknowledge fear promptly – Name it before it turns into panic. – Bring it to Jesus instead of letting it drive you. 2. Test first impressions with Scripture – Feelings say “ghost”; God’s Word reveals “Savior.” – Keep verses handy that remind you of His nearness (e.g., Psalm 46:1). 3. Expect God to work outside your “box” – He may solve a problem in ways you’ve never imagined. – Stay open to His unexpected methods rather than assuming the worst. 4. Replace dread with deliberate trust – Speak truth aloud: “The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear?” (Psalm 27:1). – Memorize 2 Timothy 1:7 and quote it whenever anxiety stirs. 5. Move from reaction to response – Reaction: scream and freeze. – Response: look for Jesus, listen for His voice, and obey the next clear step (v. 29 shows Peter doing exactly that). Scripture to Support Your Steps • Isaiah 41:10—“Do not fear, for I am with you…” • John 6:20—Parallel account where Jesus says, “It is I; do not be afraid.” • Philippians 4:6-7—Exchange anxiety for prayer and peace. • Psalm 34:4—“I sought the LORD, and He answered me; He delivered me from all my fears.” Closing Encouragement Every surge of fear is an invitation to spot the Savior already standing on the waves. Instead of letting anxiety rule the moment, look again—Jesus is closer than your feelings suggest, and His first words are still, “Take courage; it is I. Do not be afraid.” |
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