P.O. Box J, Hull, Texas 77564
Pastor Jeff Simms
Message
In this passage, Peter walks on the water to Jesus. Jesus had earlier sent the disciples to go on before him to the other side of the Sea of Galilee. This appears to be something that He rarely did, but there is a divine purpose in this parting. They are to meet again between 3-6 a.m. when Jesus comes to them walking on the water. Out of the 12, Peter is the only one who speaks up. We can be critical of him, but the others only speak up in fear. Peter takes a few steps in faith, but then becomes aware of the fact that he is accomplishing the impossible. He is walking on water to Jesus. When he takes his eyes off of Him then He gets into trouble.
How do you have a faith that is like Peters? Jesus said if we have faith as small as a mustard seed we can move mountains. (Mark 11:23-24) I believe there are several important ways we can avoid sinking like Peter.
First, we meditate on God's word. We have to renew our minds daily with the Word of God. (Eph 4:23) We need to be reoriented to God's way of thinking. We need a faith that overcomes our fears. The way to accomplish that is in hearing and reading God's word.
Second, we need to focus on God's nature, not our problems. Great faith will allow you to overcomes failures and problems. Peter sank when he got his eyes off of Jesus. It didn't make logical sense to be able to do what he was doing. Great faith will allow you to praise God even in prison (Acts 16:24-25). The same is true for church bodies. Are we a problem centered or Christ centered church? Are we a lighthouse or a landmark?
Third, great persons of God are strong in prayer. Prayer has a way of changing us, our will, our perspective, our priorities. We develop trust like a muscle in a gym. As we use our faith it will become stronger.
Fourth, we remember the past faithfulness of God in others lives and our own. We look at the examples of God's faithfulness in Scripture. We must realize that without faith, it is impossible to please God. (Heb 11:6)
In order to do great things for God, we must take steps of faith. The great accomplishments that we are remembered for will be done as our eyes are on Him. It will be a faith that overwhlems your fears and takes you to great places in the midst of life's storms.
Pastor Jeff Simms
