Matthew 14:26-33 And when the disciples saw him walking on the sea, they were troubled, saying, It is a spirit; and they cried out for fear. (27) But straightway Jesus spake unto them, saying, Be of good cheer; it is I; be not afraid. (28) And Peter answered him and said, Lord, if it be thou, bid me come unto thee on the water. (29) And he said, Come. And when Peter was come down out of the ship, he walked on the water, to go to Jesus. (30) But when he saw the wind boisterous, he was afraid; and beginning to sink, he cried, saying, Lord, save me. (31) And immediately Jesus stretched forth his hand, and caught him, and said unto him, O thou of little faith, wherefore didst thou doubt? (32) And when they were come into the ship, the wind ceased. (33) Then they that were in the ship came and worshipped him, saying, Of a truth thou art the Son of God.
Anyone who has spent time reading the Bible can give you the account of Peter walking on the water in order to meet Jesus. When Peter took his eyes off Jesus and looked around at his surroundings, he began to sink, which teaches us of the profound impact distractions can have on our faith. There is a terrific message in that alone, reminding us of the importance of maintaining our focus on the Lord amidst life’s storms. However, today’s encouragement to not be afraid lies deeper in the moment when the disciples thought Jesus was a “spirit.” The lesson here for me today is how to carefully discern and recognize when a teaching is truly of the Lord or influenced by another “spirit”! Born again believers do not have to be afraid to be misled or confused, as we have the assurance of the Holy Spirit who resides within each believer. He speaks to us gently, warning us when something “isn’t right,” encouraging us to seek truth and clarity. God gave us His Word, a timeless guide, so that we can recognize false teaching, and the Holy Spirit confirms it within us, and provides us with a deep sense of peace and assurance in our hearts. This blessed guidance allows us to navigate our spiritual journey with confidence, knowing that we will not be misled in our quest for truth and understanding. The Lord knows who are His and will not feed us the garbage of this world when we can have the pure and living water of His Word.
John 10:8 All that ever came before me are thieves and robbers: but the sheep did not hear them.
John 10:27 My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me:
Furthermore, there is no need to fear being misled because we have the Spirit of the Living God dwelling within us, a Holy presence that offers us strength and clarity in our moments of doubt. He guides and comforts us when we are going through the tumultuous waves of life, lighting our path and providing comfort and peace during our most challenging times. As we navigate the storms that life inevitably brings, we can rest assured that His wisdom will lead us toward hope and peace, enabling us to overcome our circumstances and find purpose in our struggles. It is here that we can trust that the Spirit who lives within us is with us every step of the way.
John 14:17 Even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you.
Do you know Christ as your Saviour? If you happened upon this post today and you are not certain whether or not you would go to Heaven when you die, please follow this link and the Bible verses will guide you to salvation!
