“For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.” – 2 Timothy 1:7 (KJV)
In Matthew 14:22-33, when the disciples saw Jesus walking on water, they were terrified. But Peter did something bold, even though he was fearful; he stepped up anyway and said, “…Lord, if it is You, command me to come to You on the water.” (V 28 – ESV). And Jesus said, “…Come…”
Peter stepped out of the boat while the storm was still raging. The wind hadn’t stopped. The waves hadn’t calmed. Yet faith dared him to try what fear would have refused. He only began to sink when he shifted his focus from Jesus to the storm, and even then, Jesus reached out and caught him.
Faith doesn’t mean there won’t be waves. It means you trust Jesus more than the wind. Fear would have kept Peter in the boat, but faith calls you beyond what feels secure into what requires trust. Hebrews 11:6 (KJV) reminds us, “…without faith it is impossible to please Him.” Faith moves heaven’s hand while fear keeps you frozen. Remember, God doesn’t call the equipped; He equips those He calls.
In the account of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, we read how these young men refused to bow to fear and stood firmly in their faith, even when threatened with the fiery furnace. They declared: “…our God whom we serve is able to deliver us…But if not…we will not serve your gods…” (Daniel 3:17-18 – KJV). That is daring faith. Faith that obeys even without guarantees. Faith that trusts God’s ability over fear’s intimidation. God met them in the fire and delivered them!
What is fear stopping you from attempting today? What might happen if you trust God enough to try? Just step out in faith!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for giving me the spirit of love, power, and a sound mind, and not fear. When fear tries to silence me, remind me of Your power. When doubt tries to hold me back, strengthen my faith. Help me to step out of the boat, even when the winds are strong. Teach me to trust You in the fire and on the water. Give me bold faith; the kind that dares to try what fear refuses. Let my eyes stay fixed on You. And when I feel myself sinking, remind me that Your hand is always reaching. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Read: Isaiah 41:10; John 14:27
Bible Reading Guide: Psalm 30:8-12; Mark 13:1-31; Leviticus 14