Following Jesus in the Midst of Doubt
OPENING PRAYER:
Heavenly Father, as we conclude this devotional journey, help us to follow Jesus with courage and faith, even in the midst of doubt. May Your Spirit guide us and strengthen our resolve to trust in You. Amen.
Then Peter called to him, “Lord, if it’s really you, tell me to come to you, walking on the water.” “Yes, come,” Jesus said. So Peter went over the side of the boat and walked on the water toward Jesus. But when he saw the strong wind and the waves, he was terrified and began to sink. “Save me, Lord!” he shouted. Jesus immediately reached out and grabbed him. “You have so little faith,” Jesus said. “Why did you doubt me?”
This passage recounts the story of Peter walking on water towards Jesus. Despite his initial faith, Peter's doubts cause him to sink, but Jesus is there to lift him up.
REFLECT:
Peter's experience of walking on water is a vivid illustration of the tension between faith and doubt. Initially, Peter's faith is strong enough to step out of the boat and walk towards Jesus. However, when he becomes aware of the wind and waves, his doubts take over, and he begins to sink. This story highlights the reality that even the most faithful can struggle with doubt, but it also reveals the compassionate response of Jesus, who immediately reaches out to save Peter.
The sermon emphasizes that true faith is not the absence of doubt, but the willingness to follow Jesus despite our uncertainties. Like Peter, we may find ourselves stepping out in faith, only to be overwhelmed by the challenges and doubts that arise. In these moments, it is crucial to keep our eyes fixed on Jesus, trusting that He is with us and will guide us through the storm.
In our own lives, following Jesus in the midst of doubt requires courage and perseverance. It means choosing to trust in His promises and to seek His guidance, even when we don't have all the answers. By focusing on Jesus and relying on His strength, we can overcome our doubts and grow in our faith.
I WILL STATEMENT:
I will share my doubts with God and with another person this week.
CLOSING PRAYER:
Father, thank You for the example of Peter and for the reminder that You are with us in the midst of our doubts. Help us to follow Jesus with courage and faith, trusting in Your promises and relying on Your strength. May we grow closer to You each day and find peace in Your presence. Amen.