How often do we, as shepherd leaders, whether at work, at home, or in ministry, look around and see the “high waves” in our world and begin to sink? It seems our faith goes right out the window, as Peter’s did in Matthew 4 when he had taken a few steps on the Sea of Galilee toward Jesus. We pray that Jill Briscoe’s words in her “Experiencing Life Today” blog, below, will remind all shepherd leaders of the importance of keeping their eyes on Jesus — not on what may seem like the insurmountable tasks surrounding us.
by Jill Briscoe
But when he looked around at the high waves, he was terrified and began to sink. “Save me, Lord!” he shouted. — Matthew 14:30
Peter, having overcome his fear of Jesus, decided to walk on the water, too! He was wise enough to wait until Jesus told him it was all right to try. Then he clambered over the side of his boat to go to him.
As soon as we get over our fear of the supernatural by recognizing and acknowledging God’s lordship over everything in heaven and on earth, we will want to experience that power for ourselves. I believe, for example, that Jesus could do extraordinary things. Not only could he heal sick people, he could keep his temper, be unselfish, and always say the right thing.
Can I do what Jesus did? Can I stride over the circumstances of my life in triumph? Can I walk over the waters of worries and fears? Yes, if I keep my eyes on him.
Peter unfortunately forgot who was keeping him afloat and started to look at the reasons he should be sinking. As soon as we do that, we are sunk! Peter had been afraid to face the supernatural. Having overcome that fear, he then became afraid he couldn’t depend on God to see him through.
It’s a matter of keeping our eyes on Jesus, not on the storm. And remember, if we begin to sink, we can cry out to him. He will put out his hand and save us. It’s important to him that we continue on in faith and succeed in the tasks to which he has called us!
For further study: Matthew 14:22-33
https://mailchi.mp/tellingthetruth/jills-daily-devotional-keeping-your-eyes-on-jesus?e=bfb01c51d1
