So many of us are afraid to get out of the boat to walk on water, because the possibility of drowning and sinking is so great, and so real.
While many have cheered us on in our journey on walking on water, only we ourselves know the number of times we have been distracted by the waves and faltered.
Having the privilege to share about our own journey towards serving in Uganda at the husband’s home church in Canada last weekend encouraged us deeply.
Entitled “Walking on Water”, Cliff and I had been invited to speak briefly at 4 church services, a youth group and over an hour-long session to whoever wanted to listen to our stories of fear and faith. Teens, young adults and older folks came, and as we shared story after story of how God has amazed us over and over in spite of our uncertainties and worries, we felt the atmosphere of the room lift, becoming filled with faith.
More than the surprisingly large turn-out on a Sunday afternoon, more than the deep questions asked at the end of the sharing, more than the teens who stayed back to ask more and encourage us, was Cliff’s response to my part of our combined sharing when I became emotional, “Your struggles make our journey so real and relatable. And that’s what I love so much about you when you share.”
The waves are real.
But for me, what was really inspiring was to hear him say with such conviction, “Focus on God, not on the waves. And if you sink, get back on the boat and try again!”
Our real-life testimonies, when shared,
are evidence of God’s reality in our lives.
So if you feel overwhelmed this day by your fears and uncertainties in stepping out of the boat,know that
every fear is an opportunity for Faith,
every test an opportunity for a Testimony.
In due time, as you continue to step out in faith to walk on water, you too, will have the chance to share of His goodness and faithfulness in your life.
“Lord, if it’s you,” Peter replied, “tell me to come to you on the water.”
“Come,” he said.
Then Peter got down out of the boat, walked on the water and came toward Jesus.
But when he saw the wind, he was afraid and, beginning to sink, cried out,
“Lord, save me!”
Immediately Jesus reached out his hand and caught him.
“You of little faith,” he said, “why did you doubt?”
And when they climbed into the boat, the wind died down.
Then those who were in the boat worshiped him, saying,
“Truly you are the Son of God.”
– Matthew 14:28-32