After a busy day, Jesus' friends were in a boat far out on the lake. It was night, and the wind was blowing hard.
Alone on the lake
The disciples were rowing across the lake when a strong wind stirred up the waves. Jesus was not with them — He had stayed behind to pray.
Someone on the water
Very early in the morning, they saw someone walking toward them on the water! They were frightened. But Jesus called out, “Take courage. It is I. Don't be afraid.”
“Tell me to come”
Peter said, “Lord, if it's You, tell me to come to You on the water.” Jesus said, “Come.” So Peter stepped out of the boat and began to walk on the water toward Jesus!
Eyes off Jesus
But when Peter looked at the wind and the waves, he became afraid and started to sink. “Lord, save me!” he cried.
Jesus reaches out
At once Jesus reached out His hand and caught him. “Why did you doubt?” He asked gently. Together they climbed into the boat, and the wind became calm.
⚓ The big truth
Peter could do the impossible when he kept his eyes on Jesus. When we start to sink, Jesus is right there to catch us. Keep looking to Him.
“Take courage. Don't be afraid.”
— Matthew 14:27 (WEB)
Try saying it out loud three times to help it stick!
Talk about it
- What happened when Peter looked at the wind instead of at Jesus?
- What helped Peter walk on the water?
- What does it mean to “keep your eyes on Jesus” when things feel scary?
Let's pray
Dear Jesus, when I feel afraid or start to sink, help me keep my eyes on You. Thank You that You always reach out to catch me. Amen.
Try this at home
Try a balance challenge: stand on one foot while looking at one spot, then look away and notice the wobble — just like keeping our eyes on Jesus helps us stay steady.