Text:
Matthew 14:27-31 (HCSB)
27 Immediately Jesus spoke to them. "Have courage! It is I. Don't be afraid."
28 "Lord, if it's You," Peter answered Him, "command me to come to You on the water."
29 "Come!" He said. And climbing out of the boat, Peter started walking on the water and came toward Jesus.
30 But when he saw the strength of the wind, he was afraid. And beginning to sink he cried out, "Lord, save me!"
31 Immediately Jesus reached out His hand, caught hold of him, and said to him, "You of little faith, why did you doubt?"
Observation:
What are the situations, and things that discourage you in life? Do your circumstances determine your peace of mind, and happiness?
I was reminded recently of the power of a discouraging word; it can cause us to become fearful. However, I also was reminded of the power of an encouraging word; it can cause us to have courage.
Joshua 1:9 (HCSB)
9 Haven't I commanded you: be strong and courageous? Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go."
In our focal passage I noticed that the disciples were obeying the invitation of Jesus, and they still encountered a storm.
Matthew 14:22 (HCSB)
22 Immediately He made the disciples get into the boat and go ahead of Him to the other side, while He dismissed the crowds.
The things that happen to us in our lives in this fallen world do not determine our destiny. The key to living in a fallen world is to have courage, and not be fearful. If we come to Jesus, have faith in Him, and stay with Him, He will lead and guide us safely to the home that He has prepared for us in heaven.
Let the word of Jesus to His disciples then be an encouragement to you today, and every day.
In the storms of life, remember to heed the words of Jesus.
Matthew 14:27 (HCSB)
27 Immediately Jesus spoke to them. "Have courage! It is I. Don't be afraid."
Matthew 14:31 (HCSB)
31 Immediately Jesus reached out His hand, caught hold of him, and said to him, "You of little faith, why did you doubt?"
Prayer:
Father, hallowed be Your name. We give You praise, and thanks for Your goodness, and tender mercies.
Father, help us to remember to have courage, and to keep our eyes upon Jesus, and to have faith in the goodness of God, and Your love for Your children. In the mighty name of Jesus we pray, Amen.
Ephesians 6:10-11 (ESV)
10 Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might.
11 Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil.
Read all the Daily Devotionals by Herb Cotton; click here:
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