A lesson in faith versus doubt

“PETER said to him, ‘Lord, if it is you, order me to come to you on the water.’ So he said, ‘Come.’ Peter got out of the boat, walked on the water and came toward Jesus. But when he saw the strong wind he became afraid. And starting to sink, he cried out, ‘Lord, save me!’ Immediately Jesus reached out his hand and caught him, saying to him, ‘You of little faith, why did you doubt?'” — Matthew 14:28-31

This week, we reflect on the powerful story of Peter walking on water.

Following the feeding of 5 000 people, Jesus sent His disciples ahead in a boat while He went to pray.

A storm arose and the disciples were filled with fear when they saw Jesus walking towards them on the water. It was then that Peter exclaimed: “Lord, if it is you, order me to come to you on the water.”

This act demonstrates remarkable faith. Peter believed he could do what Jesus had done, recalling Jesus’ words: “greater than this you shall do” and “as He is, so are we”.

Peter’s initial step onto the water symbolises the power of unwavering faith. He was able to walk on water as long as his focus remained on Jesus. Through faith, we can overcome seemingly insurmountable challenges. However, as Peter walked, he became distracted by the wind and waves, allowing doubt to creep in.

This moment illustrates how doubt can impede our progress and breed fear. It emphasises the importance of maintaining focus on our goals and beliefs.

Jesus’ question — “Why did you doubt?” — can be interpreted as a reminder that we possess the capacity to achieve what He can, but doubt acts as a barrier. With faith, Peter, and all of us, can “walk on water” and “move mountains”.

Jesus’ message was clear: “You have the capacity to break limitations, but your doubt is the inhibiting force.”

Peter struggled to believe he could do what Jesus had done, and doubt took hold. Why doubt, Peter, when you had already begun your journey on the water?

Why doubt when you have started that process, embarked on that journey or initiated that project?

Why falter now, Peter, especially when it was Jesus, already walking on water, who commanded you to “come”? Peter, your own doubt is your greatest adversary, causing you to regress. Do you understand that you can achieve exceedingly and abundantly more than you can ask or imagine in Christ Jesus?

Do you realise you can surpass your wildest dreams, Peter? Simply cast off that doubt and continue your journey of faith.

When Peter began to sink, he cried out to Jesus for help. Jesus immediately reached out to save him. This reminds us that help is always available when we seek it; divine assistance is closer than we think.

Let us consistently rely on a higher power during challenging times, as David proclaimed in Psalm 121:2, “My help comes from the Lord.”

Trust that God is your ever-present source of help in times of trouble.

We can achieve remarkable feats if we have faith in ourselves and our abilities.

Martin Luther King Jr’s unwavering conviction, “I have a dream”, demonstrated the power of belief. That dream eventually became a reality.

Step outside your comfort zone and trust that, with faith, mountains can indeed be moved.