In Matthew 14, we see Jesus walking on water towards his disciples, who were terrified by the stormy sea. Jesus assured them, saying, “Take courage! It is I. Don’t be afraid.” Peter, filled with faith, asked Jesus to call him out to walk on the water too. He stepped out of the boat and began to walk towards Jesus, but when he saw the wind, he began to doubt and started sinking. Jesus immediately caught him and questioned his faith.
This story shows the importance of faith and the testing of faith. In order to come to Jesus, we need to have faith. However, faith is not always easy, and we will face testing and trials. Like Peter, we may start with faith but become distracted by our circumstances and begin to doubt. But in those moments of testing, we can turn to Jesus and cry out for his help, and he will reach out to us and save us.
Why do we need testing of faith? James tells us that testing is a blessing because it leads to spiritual maturity and completeness. As we persevere through testing and trials, our faith grows stronger, and we become more like Christ. Testing also helps us to rely on God and not on our own strength or abilities. We learn to trust God in all circumstances, even when things are uncertain or difficult.
As we face trials and testing, let us remember to keep our eyes fixed on Jesus, who is the author and perfecter of our faith (Hebrews 12:2). Let us have faith like Peter, who stepped out of the boat in obedience to Jesus. And when we face doubt or fear, let us cry out to Jesus, who will reach out and catch us. In the end, we will receive the crown of life promised to those who love God and have stood the test of faith.
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