Immediately Jesus reached out his hand and caught him. “You of little faith,” he said, “why did you doubt?”
Matthew 14:31 NIV
Matthew chapter 14 shares a powerful account of Peter stepping out in faith. Jesus invited him to walk on water. Peter asked, “Lord, tell me to come to you on the water.” His request, importantly, showed deep reliance on Jesus’ divine authority. This narrative, therefore, offers profound lessons on trusting God’s word in difficult times. Peter believed Jesus’ spoken word alone could make the impossible a reality. Indeed, his initial step of faith rested entirely on Jesus’ command and the word’s power. God’s word, after all, always achieves its purpose.
God’s word possesses incredible authority. Peter experienced this truth firsthand. He responded to Jesus’ command. Subsequently, he stepped out of the boat. He then began walking on the water towards his Lord. This miraculous event highlights a crucial point. God’s spoken word holds ultimate power. It brings about realities that seem impossible otherwise.
Understanding Trials: Trusting God’s Word
However, Peter’s journey on the water also included a significant challenge. Matthew chapter 14, verse 30 records Peter saw the wind. Consequently, he became afraid and started to sink. But Peter cried out to the Lord for help. Jesus immediately responded, He saved him from sinking. Then He said, “You of little faith, why did you doubt?” This interaction offers a crucial lesson for us.
I perceived Jesus’ question did not imply the “wind” was unexpected. Indeed, trials are a reality we all face. The “wind” symbolises the inevitable challenges. These include tribulations encountered when following Christ. Moreover, difficulties like persecution are a promised part of the Christian life. Jesus Himself declared, “In this world you will have trouble.” Ultimately, these trials test our resolve.
Crucially, no trial or “wind” is strong enough to nullify God’s spoken word. Its power remains undiminished. It is undefeated by any worldly circumstance. Therefore, we can remain confident in God’s word amidst adversity. The authority of God’s word stands firm. It is greater than any storm we might encounter. This truth helps us with trusting God’s word in difficult times.
Sustained by Faith, Not Sight
Jesus questioned Peter’s doubt for a specific reason. He noticed a shift in focus. Peter moved his gaze from God’s powerful word to the distracting “wind.” Doubt suggests that the present trial is greater. It implies it overpowers the word that initiated the miracle. This perspective is dangerous for our faith journey.
The word of God brought us this far. Moreover, it is equally capable of sustaining us through every challenge. Jesus’ message to Peter serves as enduring encouragement. Specifically, we must not yield to doubt or fear amidst difficulties. Instead, we are called to have good courage. We should not be anxious about life’s temporary storms. Certainly, God’s faithful word is perfectly able to keep and sustain us. It will guide us until the very end.
Living It Out
Ultimately, Peter’s story encourages us to trust God’s powerful word. We must keep our focus on Him, even when winds rise. Remember, His word brought us this far and will sustain us through every storm.