GFT #5 - Staying in Faith

“Then Peter got down out of the boat, walked on the water and came toward Jesus. But when he saw the wind, he was afraid and, beginning to sink, cried out “Lord, save me!” Matt. 14:29

A popular yet controversial, television preacher frequently says “You’ve got to stay in faith.” Is there a Biblical basis for that statement? Keep reading.

The story begins with the disciples in a boat on a windy sea in the middle of the night. The adverse wind has them straining at the oars when the ghostly image of someone walking on the water completely shatters their nerves. Jesus announces that it is He and tells them not to be afraid. Peter says “Lord if that’s You, tell me to come”. Jesus says “come”…Peter steps overboard and begins walking. Step by step, he walks toward Jesus until he turns his attention to the wind. Seeing the wind, he’s filled with fear and begins to sink. Jesus pulls him out of the water and before walking him back to the boat, comments on his faith. “You of little faith …why did you doubt?”

With “little faith” Peter can do the spectacular and walk on water. But “little faith” is disposable faith. Peter’s initial faith disappeared like a vapor when he turned his attention to the wind and the craziness of walking on a lake in the middle of the night. I wonder how many miracles in our lifetime were being birthed yet were aborted when we pondered our circumstances and gave way to fear. Great faith sees Jesus, fixes its eyes on Jesus, locks on Him, and does not waiver.