Matthew 14:22-33

²² And straightway Jesus constrained his disciples to get into a ship, and to go before him unto the other side, while he sent the multitudes away. ²³ And when he had sent the multitudes away, he went up into a mountain apart to pray: and when the evening was come, he was there alone. ²⁴ But the ship was now in the midst of the sea, tossed with waves: for the wind was contrary. ²⁵ And in the fourth watch of the night Jesus went unto them, walking on the sea. ²⁶ And when the disciples saw him walking on the sea, they were troubled, saying, It is a spirit; and they cried out for fear. ²⁷ But straightway Jesus spake unto them, saying, Be of good cheer; it is I; be not afraid. ²⁸ And Peter answered him and said, Lord, if it be thou, bid me come unto thee on the water. ²⁹ And he said, Come. And when Peter was come down out of the ship, he walked on the water, to go to Jesus. ³⁰ But when he saw the wind boisterous, he was afraid; and beginning to sink, he cried, saying, Lord, save me. ³¹ And immediately Jesus stretched forth his hand, and caught him, and said unto him, O thou of little faith, wherefore didst thou doubt? ³² And when they were come into the ship, the wind ceased. ³³ Then they that were in the ship came and worshipped him, saying, Of a truth thou art the Son of God.

Peter was brave enough to step out on the water. He did walk on water for a short moment, but then he let himself become distracted, and just as he took his eyes and mind off Jesus, he seemed to forget who Jesus was. 

When I read this, I could see myself in this so often. I know he is Lord. I know I am his child. I know that everything he allows to happen is for his perfect reason. I know that he loves me. Yet still, at that moment when I see the boisterous winds, I become fearful and forget that Jesus is right there with me, and I lose faith and begin to sink. 

One significant thing about it is that Jesus put his hand out and rescued Peter, and I know he is always there to rescue us. He will be there to pull us out when we ask. But let us be motivated not to continue to fall and be distracted but to continue to work on keeping our eyes on Jesus and have faith in him. Remember that he is a good God who loves us and is Lord over all.