Failure Is Not FatalSample

Faith to Stand

In this next failure in Peter’s life, we see what he learned reflected in his own writings. He says that the genuineness or perfection of faith, when tested by fire, will bring praise, honor and glory at the revelation of Jesus Christ. Peter’s faith was tested and the result was the strengthening and maturing of his faith. 

Matthew shares this story and tells us that it was late on a dark, stormy and lonely night. The disciples were alone in the boat and had been rowing for a long time against the storm. They were exhausted and they see something that terrifies them. Jesus is walking on the water out to them and they cry out in fear. He tells them to be of good cheer and not to be afraid and then Peter steps up to show the other disciples what to do. He tells Jesus to command him to come out on the water to which Jesus replies, “Come.” 

Peter starts out strong with his focus on Jesus and is actually walking on the water. But then his focus shifts from Jesus to the wind, the waves, the storm, and himself, he begins to sink. When we take our focus off Christ and place it on our circumstances, we will fail. But notice what Peter does next. He cries out to the only One who can save him—Jesus. 

Matthew tells us that Jesus immediately stretched out His hand and caught Peter. Jesus, the Savior, responded to Peter’s cry and in a gentle rebuke, he asks why Peter doubted. As if to put an exclamation point to the whole event, Jesus then rebukes the storm and those in the boat worshiped Him as the Son of God. Peter had his faith tested and found Christ to be trustworthy. Welch Pastor Selwyn Hughes says, “Failures are only temporary tests to prepare us for more permanent triumphs.” When Peter says, “Lord, save me,” he shows the combination of wisdom (Lord), and faith (save me). The lesson learned is that we are to stand on Christ by faith through our failures.