Welcome to a series of weekly devotionals to strengthen and encourage us as we walk through 2021 together.
Last year was anything but predictable, and as Christians the unpredictable times are often the ones which challenge our faith the most. When things are going at our pace, on our track, and according to our plans, it’s easy to sing and shout the praises of God’s will and great plan. However, when things begin to get slightly off track, our praises (more often than not) vanish. Then… cue the domino effect.
Just as Peter took his eyes off Jesus and immediately sank- the moment we shift our eyes from Jesus and to the trials of this world- we, too, will sink. When praise turns to grumbling and faith turns to worry, our foundation crumbles. Actions often become self destructive, thoughts become all consuming, and words become pessimistic and hurtful.
Why? Because when we sever our direct line to God, when we turn away, when we exchange His values for those of the world… We no longer reflect the life of Christ. We no longer produce the Fruit of the Spirit. We no longer love like the Lord.
Peter took his eyes off Jesus, but the good news is, Jesus never looked away. We take our eyes off Jesus so often, so easily. Yet, He never looks away.
Just as He did with Peter on the water, as quickly as we turn away, He immediately extends His hand of grace to us. All we have to do is reach back and hold on.
Today, I pray you reach back. If 2020 stole your joy, shifted your thoughts, or crumbled your foundation- today is the day to intentionally grab hold of the hand of Jesus and allow Him to pull you out of the storm and onto dry land.
If 2020 amplified your joy, focused your thoughts, and strengthened your foundation- my heart is encouraged to hear that, and I encourage you to squeeze His hand even tighter. For there is no better place to be.
“But the ship was now in the midst of the sea, tossed with waves: for the wind was contrary. And in the fourth watch of the night Jesus went unto them, walking on the sea. And when the disciples saw him walking on the sea, they were troubled, saying, It is a spirit; and they cried out for fear. But straightway Jesus spoke unto them, saying, Be of good cheer; it is I; be not afraid. And Peter answered him and said, Lord, if it be thou, bid me come unto thee on the water. And he said, Come. And when Peter was come down out of the ship, he walked on the water, to go to Jesus. But when he saw the wind boisterous, he was afraid; and beginning to sink, he cried, saying, Lord, save me. And immediately Jesus stretched forth his hand, and caught him, and said unto him, O thou of little faith, wherefore didst thou doubt? And when they were come into the ship, the wind ceased.”
Matthew 14:24-32 KJV
See you next week!