When we hear the phrase “walking on water,” our minds immediately go to one of the most unforgettable moments in Scripture: Peter stepping out of the boat to meet Jesus on the waves (Matthew 14:22–33). This story is more than just a record of a miracle—it’s a living lesson in courage, trust, and supernatural faith. It shows us what happens when we keep our eyes fixed on Jesus, even in the middle of life’s fiercest storms.
At its core, this moment is a call. Jesus is still inviting His followers—you and me included—to step out of our comfort zones and experience the impossible through Him. The question is: will we dare to leave the boat behind and take that first step?
1. The Call to Step Out of the Boat
Picture the scene. The disciples are exhausted, rowing against fierce winds in the middle of the night. Then, out on the waves, they see a figure walking toward them. Fear grips their hearts—they think it’s a ghost. But then they hear the voice they know so well:
“Take courage! It is I. Don’t be afraid.” (Matthew 14:27, NIV)
It was Jesus. And His presence shifted everything.
Peter, bold and impulsive, says, “Lord, if it’s You, tell me to come to You on the water.” And with one simple word—“Come”—Jesus issues an invitation that defies logic and changes history.
Peter didn’t jump on his own idea. He waited for Jesus’ call. That’s the first step for us too. Before we step into new territory, we must first lean in to hear God’s voice. Whether it’s starting a ministry, making a major decision, or enduring a season of change, our confidence doesn’t come from our own courage—it comes from the One who says, “Come.”
2. Keeping Our Eyes on Jesus
With faith rising, Peter does the unthinkable—he steps out of the boat. The water holds him. Step after step, he’s walking on top of what should have drowned him.
But then his focus shifts. He sees the size of the waves, feels the force of the wind, and fear replaces faith. The moment his eyes leave Jesus, he begins to sink. Desperate, he cries out: “Lord, save me!” (Matthew 14:30).
Isn’t that just like us? We start strong—trusting God, moving in faith, stepping out into the unknown. But then the storms of life get louder: the bills pile up, the diagnosis shakes us, the relationships strain. Our focus drifts, and so does our faith.
The secret to walking on water is not perfect conditions—it’s perfect focus.
We stay above the waves when we:
- Pray continually. Prayer aligns our hearts with His (1 Thessalonians 5:17).
- Stay rooted in Scripture. God’s Word lights the path ahead (Psalm 119:105).
- Surround ourselves with faith-filled people. Encouragement fuels endurance (Hebrews 10:25).
If Peter had kept his eyes on Jesus, the water would have held. The same is true for us: our destiny is determined by where we fix our gaze.
3. Overcoming Fear and Doubt
The moment Peter begins to sink, Jesus immediately reaches out His hand. He doesn’t let Peter go under; He rescues him. Then He asks, “You of little faith, why did you doubt?” (Matthew 14:31).
This is not harsh condemnation—it’s a gentle reminder. Jesus is teaching Peter, and us, that faith grows as we keep trusting Him.
Fear and doubt will always try to pull us under. But God’s Word says:
“God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and a sound mind.” (2 Timothy 1:7)
When fear rises, we can remind ourselves: fear is not from God. Instead, He offers power to overcome, love to sustain, and a sound mind to stay steady.
4. Walking Into Our Destiny
Peter’s moment on the water wasn’t about showing off—it was preparation. God was shaping him into the bold leader who would one day preach to thousands and launch the early church.
The same is true for us. Every step of faith leads us deeper into our God-given destiny.
Ephesians 2:10 says:
“For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.”
You are not an accident. God has uniquely designed you for a purpose that only you can fulfill. Walking on water is a picture of what happens when we step into that calling. It may look impossible, but with Jesus, nothing is out of reach (Matthew 19:26).
So, what’s your boat? The place of comfort and safety that feels secure, but also limits what God wants to do through you? Maybe it’s fear of failure, people’s opinions, or past disappointments. Whatever it is, Jesus is calling you to leave it behind.
5. Worship and the Storms of Life
The story ends with Jesus and Peter climbing back into the boat—and immediately, the storm ceases. The disciples, in awe, fall to their knees and worship Him: “Truly You are the Son of God.” (Matthew 14:33).
This is where every step of faith leads: to deeper worship. When we dare to step out and trust God, we discover His power in new ways. Worship becomes not just a song we sing, but a response of awe to the God who rescues, sustains, and makes the impossible possible.
Even in the middle of storms, worship shifts our perspective. It reminds us of who’s in control. The waves that terrify us bow to His authority. And the storms that shake us cannot silence His power.
Living the Lesson
Walking on water is not about showing off miraculous faith—it’s about daily choosing to trust Jesus. It’s about stepping out when He says “Come,” keeping our eyes fixed on Him, and worshiping Him no matter what the storm looks like.
If Peter could walk on water for a few steps, imagine what God can do in and through us when we live by faith. Your impossible situation is simply the backdrop for God’s next miracle.
So, the next time Jesus calls you to step out of the boat, don’t let fear hold you back. Lift your eyes above the waves, fix them on Him, and take that first step.
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us through Peter’s story that with You, all things are possible. Help us to hear Your call clearly and give us the courage to step out of the boat when You say “Come.” Lord, when storms rage and fear tries to take hold, keep our eyes fixed on Jesus. Strengthen our faith, calm our doubts, and remind us that You are always with us, ready to reach out and lift us up. Lead us into the destiny You’ve prepared, and may our lives be filled with worship and awe for who You are. We declare today that we will not be ruled by fear, but we will walk by faith, trusting that every wave bows to Your name. In Jesus’ mighty name, Amen.
Life-Giving Words of Hope & Encouragement 
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