See Him

Think back to when you first saw someone you loved after an extended absence. Typically, we're overcome with excitement and non-stop conversation - nothing else has our attention. Matthew tells of the disciples being in a boat during a terrible storm on the Sea of Galilee when they saw Jesus coming toward them on the water: "And Peter got out of the boat, and walked on the water and came toward Jesus." (Matthew 14:29, ESV). Bold and brave move, Peter! Read what happened next: "But seeing the wind, he became frightened. and beginning to sink, he cried out, 'Lord, save me!'" (V.30). Quite simply: Peter lost his focus. Yeah, life is much like that: relationships, finances, careers, obligations, etc. Oswald Chambers speaks of "self-consideration" - the shift from all-eyes-on-Jesus to personal circumstances and to navigate them. Jesus immediately responded to Peter's self-concern [that is, his sinking], "Jesus stretched out His hand and took hold of him, and said to him, 'why did you doubt?'" (V.31). Perhaps you're in a storm right now and the ferocity and turbulence has averted your heart and mind from the only trustworthy Deliverance. Isaiah wrote, "The LORD waits [expectantly] and longs to be gracious to you, and therefore He waits on high to have compassion on you" (Isaiah 30:18, AMP). Kudos to Peter for boldly getting out of the boat but he knew [in his trouble] to call out to The Savior. Peter's bold move should challenge and encourage us to see Jesus and be drawn to Him. Let's fix our eyes on Christ in and out of life's storms. He is faithful and true ... see Him.