“You of little faith, why did you doubt?” (Matthew 14:31b)
Of all the miracles Jesus performs throughout the gospels, the story of Jesus walking on water fills me with awed wonder. Perhaps that’s because this miracle seems so obviously impossible. Water can no more be a stepping stone than a feather or a cloud can be. It’s no surprise that when Peter steps out onto the sea, he realizes he is at risk and begins to sink. That makes the feat of Jesus walking on water seem all the more miraculous.
When Peter sinks, Jesus accuses his disciple of having little faith. While this is a rebuke, it also gives me hope. Elsewhere in scripture, we know how much can be accomplished with even a little faith. The mustard seed, for instance, grows into a great and hearty plant. Indeed, much like how the father’s prayer in Mark 9:24, “Lord, I believe, help my unbelief,” is followed by healing, Jesus’s words to Peter also come with a hand extended to rescue him. The one who believes, even when filled with simultaneous doubt, will still be caught up in God’s saving grace.
Ponderings:
- Are you struggling with your faith?
- Are you trusting in the wrong boat?
- What morass do you find yourself in; spiritual, emotional?
You might add the words from Mark to your daily prayers.
Prayer
Father, I believe in the promises You have made to Your children, but I am a sinful human being and my doubts are sometimes stronger. Help me in those times, strengthen my faith, and “help my unbelief”.
Stay encouraged!
Pastor Mike
