“The wind really was boisterous and the waves really were high, but Peter didn’t see them at first. He didn’t consider them at all; he simply recognized his Lord, stepped out in recognition of Him, and “walked on the water.” Then he began to take those things around him into account, and instantly, down he went.”
-My Utmost for His Highest
I can relate to Peter in this story. I don’t know that I would have the faith to step out of a boat in the middle of the water, but I can understand his fear when seeing the storm- the wind and the waves.
It seems understandable for a man to be afraid while doing something as crazy as walking on water. And yet, Jesus, after compassionately saving Peter from sinking into the ocean, responds, “O you of little faith, why did you doubt?”
Since being home from training camp I feel like I have started to sink.
Through committing to the World Race, I jumped out of the proverbial boat. Having heard Jesus’ call, I started living my life in obedience to Him again.
I was walking, filled with his peaceful assurance in the midst of much uncertainty.
But I have been watching the waves. I have forgotten to watch his face. I forgot to listen to his voice. I have turned my attention from his promise of peace through his presence. I have been distracted by the waves of financial deadlines and to do’s; the winds of fear and doubt.
I have been lazy while at home, adding to my lack of peace, dragging me further down into the swirls of my circumstances. I have been running in circles without moving at all.
This morning I woke up anxious and needing to hear the Lord’s voice. I’m thankful that even when I do sink, he saves me from drowning and sets me back in the boat with a new call to follow.
In the quietness of today, he led me again to his face. I again feel challenged to live my life with his presence leading my steps. He reminded me that he wants to give me the peace that I crave. He spoke to me saying, “Take heart; it is I. Do not be afraid.”
But I have to look at him. Want him. Trust him. Run to him, even in the storm.
He led me to this song that I had never heard before:
Running in Circles – United Pursuit Band
I'm so forgetful, but You always remind me
You're the only one who brings me peace
You're the only one who brings me peace
So I come, Lord I come
I come, Lord I come
To tell you I love you
To tell you I need you
To tell you there's no better place for me than in your arms
To tell you I'm sorry
For running in circles
For placing my focus on the waves, not on your face
You're the only one who brings me peace
You're the only one who brings me peace
In the storm
In the storm
These words are not just for me today. I know that so many people are going through unimaginable storms. No matter what you’re walking through, please be reminded and encouraged that you have a God who has the power to walk on water; a Father who wants to give you peace that passes understanding as you walk through your storm.
He is the only one who can give us peace. In the midst of the wind and the waves Jesus says, “Take heart; it is I. Do not be afraid.”
Take heart.
He’s the only one who brings us peace.
