What Jesus Did! 'On the Savior, Not the Storm' — Matthew 14:28-31

Tuesday, July 15, 2025

Then Peter called to [Jesus as he was walking on the water], "Lord, if it's really you, tell me to come to you, walking on the water."

"Yes, come," Jesus said.

So Peter went over the side of the boat and walked on the water toward Jesus. But when he saw the strong wind and the waves, he was terrified and began to sink. "Save me, Lord!" he shouted.

Jesus immediately reached out and grabbed him. "You have so little faith," Jesus said. "Why did you doubt me?"

— Matthew 14:28-31 NLT

Key Thought

Peter is beginning to catch on, isn't he? He knows that if Jesus demands something of us, he also empowers us to do it! But like us, Peter gets distracted with all the problems in doing what Jesus asks, all the things that can go wrong in his dream of faith, and he becomes afraid.

I've heard repeatedly that the command for God's people not to be afraid is the most often found command in Scripture. While I can't verify that this is true, I know Jesus does have to say it over and over again: "Have courage; don't be afraid!" But this time, fear gets the better of faith, and Peter sinks. This lapse doesn't ruin Peter because he knows where salvation is found. But Jesus does let Peter know that it's getting to be time for him to have a bigger faith.

So what about you today? Where do you need help? Not fearing? Launching out in faith? Calling on Jesus for help? Developing a stronger faith? Keeping your eyes and faith on Christ and not the problems all around? This is one of those days where there are both rebuke and encouragement for each of us no matter where we are on the journey! So let's hear Jesus' call to us and respond!

Today's Prayer

Almighty and holy God, give me courage to believe and keep my eyes focused on Jesus and not on the problems that seem so large. I believe you long to do great things in our times today. Please use me as a vessel in your service and to your glory. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.

Related Scripture Readings

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11 Related Resources by Heartlight

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What happens after I leave the calm place? Bill Sherrill shares about finding a quiet space where he can share in the joy and blessing of the Lord's peace, but he also talks about the times and places the Lord blesses him in the middle of terror, storm, and fear.
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Illustration

Illustration of Matthew 14:28-31 NLT — "Why did you doubt me?"

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About This Devotional

What Jesus Did! is a series of one-year devotional guides through each gospel, using one short scripture passage each day and following the Gospel in sequential order. Each devotional consists of a scripture passage and a reflection and a prayer which open up the day's scripture and show how it challenges you to live for Jesus.

What Jesus Did! is written by Phil Ware and is available in book form.

Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007, 2013, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.

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