The Essential JesusSample

Seeing and Believing

PRAY: Heavenly Father, I ask that you would strengthen any areas where my faith in you is weak as I read your word today.

READ: Matthew 14:22-33

REFLECT: I once saw a television interview with an actor from the movie The Da Vinci Code. In response to criticism from Christians that the film made untrue statements about Jesus, the actor said, "Well, I've always felt the Bible should include a disclaimer. A man walking on water..." he said, squinting with one eye and tilting his head, "come on."

But just because we haven't seen something doesn't mean it couldn't be true. Peter had never seen a man walking on water either; it might have been a mirage, ghost, or something worse. Still, he stepped out of the boat. That's the essence of faith, the willingness to move forward, trusting God even when the way is unclear.

I wonder what Peter felt at that moment when he realized he was sinking into the raging waters (v. 30): embarrassment, panic, fear? Probably all of that. Now try to imagine Peter's emotions when he felt the strong grip of Jesus on his arm (v. 31). That was the moment he was sure it was no ghost (v. 26). Once Peter was safely back in the boat, there was no need to quibble about whether a man could walk on water.

I remember facing a situation that scared the daylights out of me. I was inadvertently drawn into a financial scam that threatened to wipe me out. During those days, I typed the words Jesus said to the disciples on a piece of paper and taped it next to my computer. Whenever I felt fearful, I'd look at the words and say them aloud: "Take courage! It is I. Don't be afraid" (v. 27). In so doing, I learned the lesson Peter learned from the middle of the lake: calling out to Jesus is the best way to overcome fear.

So how would you respond to the actor who wouldn't believe that Jesus walked on water? All I can say is this: I know Jesus has saved me, and I've experienced his ability to take away my fear. So it doesn't seem so unbelievable that he could also walk on water. And I don't need to see it to believe it.

APPLY: In what area of your life do you need to move forward in faith even though the way seems unclear? How could you do so?

PRAY: Spend a few minutes talking to God about that area of your life where you sense a need to step out in faith.