Monday, June 3, 2024

Faith Takes Action…..

With Humanity, in all of its components, being distracted is high on the list. Here, Peter sees Jesus walking on water (a miracle), yet loses his focus by all the storm’s interactions. Here we have a man witnessing God Himself, walking on water. It’s not just water, but stormy water, tumultuous waves and high winds, all while standing in an unstable boat. Defying the natural laws of reality, would and should grab our attention. As long as Peter kept his eyes focused on Jesus, he was able to walk on the water towards Jesus. It’s when he allowed the storm to invade his focus that his ability to walk on water began to fail. Doubt is opposite of faith. It’s necessary, but we can’t allow it to grow and take over. Two points are clear here. First, faith takes focus. When faith is in action, there will be distractions. Satan won’t allow one single person to grow in faith without providing many distractions. Why? Because he doesn’t want God to get any glory. It’s that simple. Secondly, faith takes action. Use it or lose it. In order for faith to grow, it must be exercised. It’s when we act in “faith”, that we see it grow. And part of this action is for us to see it, to prove to ourselves that it’s real. Peter gives us a glimpse of these two principles. If you’re struggling with your faith, it may be because you’re distracted. You might just be focused on the wind and waves of life instead of on the One that has the answers to your struggle. Hunker down, concentrate on Jesus. Set your vision on the One Who walked on water. When you do, you’ll begin to see how important staying focused is, especially when the opportunity comes to walk with Jesus. Ask God to help you with your spiritual sight, and don’t be surprised when you have the opportunity to do what seems impossible. For with God, all things are possible.

22 Immediately after this, Jesus insisted that His disciples get back into the boat and cross to the other side of the lake, while He sent the people home. 23 After sending them home, He went up into the hills by Himself to pray. Night fell while He was there alone.24 Meanwhile, the disciples were in trouble far away from land, for a strong wind had risen, and they were fighting heavy waves. 25 About three o’clock in the morning Jesus came toward them, walking on the water. 26 When the disciples saw Him walking on the water, they were terrified. In their fear, they cried out, “It’s a ghost!”27 But Jesus spoke to them at once. “Don’t be afraid,” He said. “Take courage. I am here!”28 Then Peter called to Him, “Lord, if it’s really You, tell me to come to You, walking on the water.”29 “Yes, come,” Jesus said.So Peter went over the side of the boat and walked on the water toward Jesus. 30 But when he saw the strong wind and the waves, he was terrified and began to sink. “Save me, Lord!” he shouted.31 Jesus immediately reached out and grabbed him. “You have so little faith,” Jesus said. “Why did you doubt Me?”32 When they climbed back into the boat, the wind stopped. 33 Then the disciples worshiped Him. “You really are the Son of God!” they exclaimed.34 After they had crossed the lake, they landed at Gennesaret. 35 When the people recognized Jesus, the news of His arrival spread quickly throughout the whole area, and soon people were bringing all their sick to be healed. 36 They begged Him to let the sick touch at least the fringe of His robe, and all who touched Him were healed. Matthew 14:22-36

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