How does Peter's action in Matthew 14:28 inspire us to trust Jesus more? Setting the Scene Jesus has just fed the five thousand, sent the disciples ahead by boat, and come to them in the middle of a wind-tossed night. His walking on the water is a real, historical miracle—one more confirmation that every word of Scripture is true and trustworthy. Peter’s Bold Request “Peter answered Him, ‘Lord, if it is You, command me to come to You on the water.’ ” (Matthew 14:28) What Peter Got Right • He recognized Jesus’ voice above the storm. • He believed Jesus could uphold him in an impossible situation. • He understood that obedience (“command me”) precedes experience. Lessons That Inspire Greater Trust • Trust starts with looking to Jesus, not the waves (Hebrews 12:2). • We can ask big things when our aim is to come closer to Him (John 14:13-14). • Faith grows when we step out on the literal promises of God, not feelings (2 Peter 1:4). • Obedience invites participation in God’s power (James 2:17). Keeping Our Eyes on Jesus • Proverbs 3:5-6—trust involves leaning entirely on Him, not partial self-reliance. • Psalm 37:5—commit, trust, and watch Him act. • Mark 11:22—“Have faith in God,” a call to active reliance. Christ’s Response Strengthens Confidence • Jesus immediately said, “Come.” His commands always carry His enabling power. • When Peter faltered, Jesus “reached out His hand and took hold of him” (Matthew 14:31). Even wavering faith rests in an unfailing Savior. • The wind ceased when they got into the boat (v. 32), proving Jesus is sovereign over every threat. Practical Ways to Step Out of the Boat Today • Start the day in Scripture, taking one clear command to obey. • Pray specifically for courage to act on what the Lord has said. • Take one tangible step that feels risky but aligns with biblical truth—share the gospel, reconcile a relationship, give sacrificially. • When distractions surge, verbally refocus: “Jesus, You are Lord over this storm.” • Record each instance of His faithfulness; past rescues fuel future trust. Because Peter literally walked on water at Jesus’ word, we are invited to trust the same Savior with every impossible moment we face. |
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