Day 67 — When the Wind Seems Stronger Than the Promise

Main verse

“But when he saw the wind boisterous, he was afraid; and beginning to sink, he cried, saying, Lord, save me.”
— Matthew 14:30 (KJV)

Meditation

Peter had heard Jesus say, “Come.” On the strength of that word, he left the boat and stepped onto the water. For a few moments, the impossible became a path.

But the wind had not stopped blowing. When Peter gave all his attention to the wind, fear took the place of trust, and he began to sink.

The account does not invite us to deny the storm. The wind was truly strong and the sea truly dangerous. Faith does not require us to pretend that difficulties do not exist. Yet it refuses to give them greater authority than Christ’s presence.

We sometimes resemble Peter. We move forward with trust, then bad news, opposition, or a delay captures all our attention. The promise that sustained us suddenly seems smaller than the circumstances.

Even then, all is not lost. Peter speaks a very short prayer: “Lord, save me.” He recites no lengthy formula. He simply calls to Jesus from the place where he is sinking.

Immediately, Jesus reaches out his hand. He corrects Peter about his doubt, but does not let him disappear beneath the waves. The weakness of Peter’s faith does not cancel the Savior’s nearness.

Walking by faith abolishes neither wind nor fear. Faith teaches us to turn back to Jesus and cry out to him when we lose our footing.

Today, the waves may be strong. But Christ’s hand is nearer than we think.

Psalm

Psalm 46:1–3 (KJV)

¹ God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. ² Therefore will not we fear, though the earth be removed, and though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea; ³ Though the waters thereof roar and be troubled, though the mountains shake with the swelling thereof. Selah.

Further Bible reading

Matthew 14:22–33; Psalm 107:23–31; Hebrews 12:1–3

Suggested hymn

The Church Hymnal (1941), no. 398 — “Jesus, Saviour, Pilot Me”

View the hymn reference ↗

Prayer

Lord Jesus, you know the winds that unsettle my life and the waves that frighten me. When circumstances become more visible than your promise, turn my gaze back to you. And if I begin to sink, hear my cry, reach out your hand, and teach me to trust you again. Amen.

A thought to keep

When my faith loses its footing, Jesus’ hand remains within reach of my cry.

Personal Notes

What would you like to remember, pray about, or put into practice today?