Stepping out of the Boat

By Andy Geesey

November 1, 2024

A Story of Faith and Doubt

It was a stormy night on the Sea of Galilee. The disciples were in a boat, struggling against the wind and the waves. They had left Jesus behind after He had fed a large crowd with five loaves and two fish.

Suddenly, they saw a figure walking on the water, coming towards them. They were terrified, thinking it was a ghost. But then they heard a familiar voice: “…Be of good cheer; it is I; be not afraid” (Matthew 14:27).

They recognized Jesus, and their fear turned to awe.

Peter, the most impulsive and daring of them, said to Him, “…Lord, if it be thou, bid me come unto thee on the water” (Matthew 14:29).

Jesus replied, "Come."

Peter did not hesitate. Then he stepped out of the boat, leaving the others behind. Next, he fixed his eyes on Jesus and felt a surge of faith and courage. However, as he walked on the water, defying the laws of nature, he noticed the wind and the waves around him. He realized how dangerous his situation was. He began to doubt his ability and his Lord. He started to sink.

As he sank, he refocused on Jesus and cried out, “…Lord, save me!” (Mtt 14:30).

Jesus reached out His hand and caught him. He said to him, “..O thou of little faith, wherefore didst thou doubt?” (Matthew 14:31).

He lifted him up and brought him back to the boat. As soon as they got in, the wind and the waves ceased. The disciples were amazed and worshiped Him, saying, “…Of a truth thou art the Son of God” (Matthew 14:33).

The Meaning of

Stepping Out of the Boat

Stepping out of the boat - means getting out of your comfort zone. It means doing something you’ve never done before, or something that seems impossible or risky. It could be sharing your faith with someone, volunteering for a ministry, giving more generously, or making a big life change.

Stepping out of the boat - requires faith and obedience. It means listening to the voice of Jesus and responding with a ‘Yes,’ even if you don’t fully understand or feel ready. It means trusting that He will be with you and empower you to do His will.

Stepping out of the boat - involves facing your fears and doubts. It means not letting the storms and waves of life distract you or discourage you from following Jesus. It means keeping your eyes on Him and relying on His grace and strength.

Stepping out of the boat - leads to growth and blessing. It means experiencing the power and presence of Jesus in a new way. It means seeing Him work miracles and wonders in your life and in the lives of others. It means worshiping Him and glorifying Him as the Son of God.

A Poem Inspired by the Story

Step out of the boat
And follow the Lord
He's calling you to come
And walk on the water.

Step out of the boat
And trust in His word
He's promising you more
Than you can imagine.

Step out of the boat
And face your fears
He's holding your hand
And catching your tears.

Step out of the boat
And see His glory
He's showing you wonders
And writing your story.

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Price includes all meals from Thursday morning through Saturday morning. Price increases by $20 on March 1st.

 

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