Wednesday, February 12, 2014

All eyes on Jesus

Can you imagine traveling on a boat in the middle of the lake encountering a storm being swayed in rough waters as Peter experienced?  Imagine how terrifying Peter must have been knowing that his chances of survival were slim.  However in that terrifying and horrific moment the impossible happened he saw Jesus walking on water reaching out for him.  As Jesus walked toward him, Jesus told Peter to come out of the boat and walk towards him.  He also encouraged Peter not to be afraid and take courage for he is with him.  Peter, knowing that it was indeed Jesus, began to walk on water towards him with his eyes completely focused on him.  When suddenly the storm intensified, Peter immediately took his eyes off Jesus and focused on the storm.  Instantly, Peter went through turmoil being consumed by the water and experienced death right before his eyes.  Jesus calmly reaches out and pulls him to safety telling him “You of little faith, why did you doubt?”

At times we can become like Peter, we become so frightened of our situation that we take our eyes off Jesus.  Although we may not do it intentionally there are storms of this magnitude that lead us to become weary taking us out of focus and emotionally tossing us in all different directions. In times like these is when we ought to always remember that Jesus continuously walks in the midst of us being vigilant of the unexpected circumstances in our lives.  And when the unexpected happens we are to not become weary nor doubtful, like Peter, knowing that Jesus is right there defending and protecting us.  He will never take his eyes off us and nor should we.  

Since we have the word in our hearts, in difficult times, we are to recall his words and use it to fight against our situation.  We are to call things just has the word says knowing that the word will provide us with strength, courage and wisdom.  Just as Peter knew Jesus was calling him, therefore, never doubt that his presence is not with you, no matter what the situation is, he is right there calling your attention telling you to call out for him for he is there ready to do the impossible. Yes, sometimes the storm can be unbearable but know that it will strengthen your faith too.  God will never allow you to be tempted more than you can bear.  Jesus comes at the opportune time for he is never late.

When we take our focus off Jesus, we become stress and overwhelmed with all kinds of emotions not allowing us to focus on what is beneficial and important to us.  It is all a distraction coming from the enemy to get us off Jesus’ plan for our life. Always remember when you fall in fear what Jesus said to Peter, “You of little faith, why do you doubt?” 

Isaiah 48:16-17 Come near me and listen to this: “From the first announcement I have not spoken in secret; at the time it happens, I am there.” And now the Sovereign Lord has sent me, endowed with his Spirit.  This is what the Lord says—your Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel: “I am the Lord your God, who teaches you what is best for you, who directs you in the way you should go.

Amen!

+EWSF


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