Then Peter called to him, “Lord, if it’s really you, tell me to come to you, walking on the water.” Matthew 14:28
What made Peter decide to step out of the boat? Why in the world did he suddenly think he could walk on water? Well, you might say it’s because he had seen Jesus open blind eyes, cleanse the lepers, and do all those miraculous wonderful things he did.” Yes, that’s true. But the other disciples, who were right there in the boat with him that night, experienced the same storm, the same miracles and they didn’t budge. Why not?
First, Peter believed Jesus was who He claimed to be. As he stepped out of the boat he had his eyes fixed on Jesus, not on himself. His faith was ignited deep down inside. At that moment, he became on fire, and he believed he could do what God placed in his heart. Jesus said, “Peter, you want to step out of that boat?” and Peter said, “Yes, of course I do.” Peter stepped out of the boat and he walked on the water. Many people say, “Yeah, but he started to sink.” Yes, that’s true, but he did walk on water more than anyone else in that boat ever did! He had the courage to act and step out of the boat in faith because he believed!
Perhaps we need to be as bold as Peter instead of sitting comfortably in the boat waiting for something to happen. Jesus is calling us to step out – become proactive and combine our faith with action by saying things like, “it’s my time to be transformed. I’ve seen it happen for others, but now it’s my time to see God’s blessings and favor. It’s my time to step out and accomplish the dreams and purpose God has for my life! It’s my time to step out and replace bad habits with good ones. This is my season of success. This is my season of increase and promotion, my season of blessing. It’s my time to shine! It’s my time to . YOU fill in the blank! It’s time to take that leap (action) and step out of the boat in faith!
When we have that kind of attitude, we’re saying in effect what Peter said. “God, can I come walk with you? I believe it’s my time now.” Notice what Jesus said next, “Peter, I like your attitude of faith. I like the fact that you believe you can do great things. Your faith can move mountains! It’s your chance to walk on water with me!”
What’s been holding you back? Are you still sitting in the boat? What are you waiting for? The economy to change? Your job to change? Your finances to change? People to change? Your family to change? You to change? Maybe it’s your chance right now to walk on water!
Personally truth be known, it’s taken a huge leap of faith to take action and step out of the boat. Life isn’t always easy. At times it can be very frustrating and cruel. Maybe that’s kinda what Jeremiah was thinking. No one’s listening, no one’s acting, everyone’s at a standstill, nothing’s happening. No God said… I have a plan for you, a plan to prosper you and not harm you. Plans to give you a hope and a future! Now are you going to step out with me or stay in the boat?
“Storms in life will come and go for all of us. The grass isn’t always greener on the other side – it’s never really a surprise, just be prepared when the storms hit!”
With God ALL things are possible!
Living Life With Purpose!