In Matthew 14:30 we see Peter stepping out of the boat to come to Jesus walking on the water. Only Peter would think of doing that! Let's take a brief look at Peter starting to sink.
First: He was starting to sink, not because of some sin or doing something wrong, but because he was Peter. His temperament got him into this fix. The others used their common sense and stayed in the boat. Peter had to do something. Peter would begin to walk on water and Peter would begin to sink.
Second: He began to sink in familiar waters. He knew the lake like all fishermen do. Here he was among those who knew him. Here he was among those who loved him. Many start to sink when away from home and in strange places. How sad to start to sink among friends and loved ones.
Third: He began to sink after loyal discipleship. Faithful to the Lord and maturing in the faith. He was not a novice. Yet he began to sink.
Fourth: He was on a permitted path. The Lord had told him to come. It was not because he was out of the will of God. He was not trespassing. He had been invited to come. It is possible for us, even though we are in His will and doing what is right, to start to sink. How prone we are to judge another who is beginning to sink and lay the blame on him.
Fifth: The others in the boat were not aware of Peter's danger. It's hard to tell on rough water when one is starting to sink. They could not help Peter even if they knew he was starting to go down.
Sixth: Jesus was close by and Jesus was able to help Peter. He was the only one who could and the only one who would. Jesus was not surprised. He was there ready to help.
Application: It is possible for us to start to sink even when we are doing what is right and walking in His will. Our pastor, loved ones, and friends may not be aware of the danger. Isn't it wonderful to know that Jesus knows and is near and will help us when we call on Him?
El Paso, TX
Fall 1986
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