Trust Fall - Pt 1

And Peter answered him, “Lord, if it is you, command me to come to you on the water.” He said, “Come.” So Peter got out of the boat and walked on the water and came to Jesus. But when he saw the wind, he was afraid, and beginning to sink he cried out, “Lord, save me.” Jesus immediately reached out his hand and took hold of him, saying to him, “O you of little faith, why did you doubt?” And when they got into the boat, the wind ceased. And those in the boat worshiped him, saying, “Truly you are the Son of God.” (Matthew 14:28-33 ESV). Are you ever tempted to doubt? Many years ago, when I was still involved with the youth of our church in their summer camps, we made low-ropes a part of the camp experience. One of the exercises was the “trust fall.” It involved one person standing on a platform about three feet above the ground, facing backward to a group of six others and falling into their arms. It was designed to build a sense of “trust.” It is an amazing way to help overcome fears and teach the principle of faith. The first time anyone does it is always the hardest, however it is never easy to trust yourself into the care of others so completely. Even when you have done it over and over, it is scary. Life is that way sometimes, isn't it? We know who God is, that He can do what He says He can, and that He will. What is more difficult is seeing that played out everyday of our life, especially when the storms of life come our way. No matter how many times He delivers us, the next time the wind blows may cause us to doubt again. Peter is a good example of this principle. Peter was the disciple whose faith Jesus used as an example of the foundation for the church. Peter was the Rock who left his fishing business to follow Christ. Peter cut off the Roman soldier's ear when they tried to arrest Jesus. Peter was capable of great faith. It certainly took faith to step out of that boat. Jesus called to him from the boat, and Peter volunteered to come to Jesus. Jesus didn't even ask him to. Think of the amazing faith it must have taken to make that first step onto the water. But, when the wind picked up a bit, Peter was ready to doubt. He started to sink. He couldn't see Christ for the fear of this world. Ever doubt? Is the ever a time when you just can't see what God is doing, because the circumstances of life are bigger than you can handle? Jesus would say to us what He said to Peter: "You of little faith, why did you doubt?" If you and I have our eyes on Jesus, we have nothing to fear! Have no doubt my, God is in control!