Life is full of challenges, uncertainties, and trials. As followers of Christ, we are not exempt from these storms, but we are called to face them with faith. One of the most vivid biblical accounts of walking through trials is Peter’s experience of stepping out of the boat and walking on water toward Jesus. Found in Matthew 14:22–33, this story provides profound insights for every disciple of Christ navigating life’s difficulties.
The Story: A Step of Faith Amid the Storm
After feeding the five thousand, Jesus instructed His disciples to cross the Sea of Galilee while He retreated to pray. As the disciples struggled against strong winds and waves during the night, Jesus appeared to them, walking on the water. Terrified, they initially thought He was a ghost, but Jesus reassured them:
“Take heart; it is I. Do not be afraid.” (Matthew 14:27)
In a moment of bold faith, Peter responded:
“Lord, if it is You, command me to come to You on the water.” (Matthew 14:28)
When Jesus said, “Come,” Peter stepped out of the boat and began walking on the water toward Him. But as he noticed the wind and waves, fear overtook him, and he started to sink. Crying out, “Lord, save me,” Peter was immediately rescued by Jesus, who said:
“O you of little faith, why did you doubt?” (Matthew 14:31)
As they climbed back into the boat, the wind ceased, and the disciples worshipped Jesus, declaring:
“Truly, You are the Son of God.”
Why Did Peter Sink?
Peter’s journey on the water is a remarkable example of faith and doubt colliding. His boldness to step out of the boat shows his trust in Jesus, but his sinking reveals the common struggles believers face. So, why did Peter begin to sink?
- Fear of Circumstances
- Peter’s faith wavered when he became aware of the wind and waves around him. Instead of keeping his focus on Jesus, he allowed his circumstances to overwhelm him.
- This mirrors our own experiences when life’s storms distract us from trusting God’s power.
- Doubting Jesus’ Power
- Initially, Peter trusted Jesus enough to step onto the water. But as doubt crept in, his confidence faltered. Doubt, even momentary, can weaken the strongest faith.
- Relying on Self
- Peter’s sinking reminds us of our inability to walk by faith in our own strength. True faith depends on God’s power, not human effort.
Modern-Day Storms: Trials We Face
Today, believers encounter storms that test their faith, just as Peter did. Here are some examples of trials that can cause us to sink if we take our eyes off Jesus:
1. Financial Hardships
- Losing a job, mounting debt, or struggling to make ends meet can create anxiety and fear. Instead of sinking into despair, we must remember Jesus’ promise in Matthew 6:33: “Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.”
2. Health Challenges
- Facing illness or watching a loved one suffer can feel overwhelming. In these moments, trust in God’s healing power and His grace to sustain you. Psalm 46:1 reminds us, “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.”
3. Relationship Struggles
- Conflicts in marriage, family, or friendships can lead to feelings of isolation and pain. Instead of giving in to anger or bitterness, focus on Jesus’ call to love and forgive, knowing He can restore broken relationships.
4. Emotional Turmoil
- Anxiety, depression, and fear can cloud our vision of God’s goodness. In these storms, meditate on Philippians 4:6–7, which promises the peace of God to those who bring their concerns to Him in prayer.
5. Persecution or Rejection
- Standing firm in your faith can lead to ridicule or rejection from others. Remember Jesus’ words in John 16:33: “In this world, you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”
Lessons for Disciples Facing Trials
Peter’s experience provides several key lessons for Christians navigating their own challenges:
1. Keep Your Eyes on Jesus
- When Peter focused on Jesus, he walked on water. When he focused on the storm, he began to sink. As believers, we must fix our gaze on Christ, trusting Him to sustain us through life’s trials.
- Hebrews 12:2 encourages us to look to Jesus, the “author and finisher of our faith.”
2. Faith Requires Action
- Peter’s first step out of the boat was a powerful act of faith. Similarly, we are called to take steps of faith, even when the path seems impossible. Faith is not passive; it requires us to trust God and act on His word.
3. Jesus Is Always Ready to Save
- Even as Peter’s faith faltered, Jesus didn’t abandon him. At Peter’s cry for help, Jesus immediately reached out and rescued him. No matter how far we feel from God, His grace is always available to lift us up.
4. Trials Deepen Our Faith
- The storm revealed Peter’s faith and doubt, but it also led to a deeper understanding of Jesus’ power. Similarly, our trials can refine and strengthen our faith, drawing us closer to God.
Walking by Faith, Not by Sight
Peter’s experience on the water is a powerful reminder of the importance of faith in the life of a disciple. The storms of life are inevitable, but they are also opportunities to trust God more deeply. When we focus on Jesus, take steps of faith, and rely on His power, we can walk through any trial with confidence.
Even when we falter, Jesus’ hand is always extended to lift us up. His words in John 16:33 are a source of comfort and strength:
“In this world, you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”
Let us, like Peter, step out of the boat and walk by faith, trusting in the One who calms the wind and waves. As we do, we will see His power sustain us, and we will grow stronger in our journey as His disciples.
