Then Peter got down out of the boat, walked on the water and came toward Jesus. —Matthew 14:29b

Click Here To Read Today’s Scripture: Matthew 14:22-33

It was Family Sunday at church, so the children remained in the sanctuary the entire service. After a lively memory verse activity, the leader asked for volunteers to go up front and recite the verse. Quick as a blink Jordan and Jaden were in the aisle heading for the microphone. Their younger friend Grayson, three years old, got up as well—at a much slower pace but resolute. He looked neither right nor left as he inched down the aisle, not even looking to see if Mommy was watching. His eyes were laser-focused on Jordan and Jaden as, one by one, they smartly recited the Bible verse. When it was Grayson’s turn, never mind he needed help with the words, his voice rang confidently through the sanctuary: "The joy of the Lord is your strength!" 

Peter was in a similar situation the night he and the other disciples saw Jesus walking on the water, heading toward their boat. Wanting to walk on water too, and encouraged by Jesus, "Peter got down out of the boat, walked on the water and came toward Jesus" (Matthew 14:29). He was doing fine, walking steadfastly toward Jesus. But as soon as he started looking around at the violent wind and waves, fear gripped him and he began to sink (v.30). 

Often when we reflect on this Scripture, or dramatize it in Sunday school, we focus on Peter's fleeting courage and use him as an example of what not to do. However, another key lesson is that when we keep our eyes on our friend Jesus, laser-focused on Him, He gives us the courage we need to do the hard things in life. 

Reflection: Do you have a friend or family member who’s walking through a difficult situation? How can you encourage them this week to fix their eyes on Jesus? 

 Prayer Starter:

Lord Jesus, thank You for reassuring me that You are always near. Help me to keep my eyes fixed on You and point others in Your direction.  

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