Never Abandoned!

Christ never abandons us in our time of need; He only asks us to believe in Him. In Matthew's gospel, we see a vivid example of this faith when Peter steps out of the boat to walk on water towards Jesus. Peter takes a few steps but starts to sink when fear and doubt creep in. Christ's words to Peter, perhaps tinged with a tone of disappointment, reveal the heart of the Father: “Why did you doubt?”

This question speaks volumes about God's desire for us to trust Him without limits. When Jesus and Peter step back into the boat, the storm dies away, and peace resumes. This scene is a powerful reminder that Christ wants to be our peace, our strength, and our solution to all of life’s troubles.

The chapter continues with more healings by Christ, underscoring that He is with us in every state of our life’s journey. Peter learned this lesson well. In his first letter, he wrote: “Cast all your anxieties on Him, for He cares about you” (1 Peter 5:7).

We have all felt the fear that Peter felt. We have all been terrified at times. Some of us have felt Christ approach us and call to us in the midst of a storm. I have sensed that surge of recognition and the confidence it produced in my heart, but often, those around me did not share my feeling.

Like Peter, I know what it feels like to step towards that reassuring voice. Yet, after a few moments, I realized the storm had not ceased. I too have looked away from Him who spoke to me. Whenever I took my eyes off Him, the sinking feeling returned. The whole world seemed to fall in on me, and I could barely call out to Him for help.

But He was there. He has always been there. He has never given up on me. He believes in me and continues to believe in me even when I struggle to believe in Him or myself.

If you have ever experienced this or are experiencing it now, I want to encourage you to return your eyes to Him. Listen again for His voice. He is closer than you think!

In our moments of doubt and fear, Christ's unwavering presence offers solace and strength. He stands beside us in every storm, ready to extend His hand. Our journey with Him is marked by moments of profound trust and occasional faltering. Yet, each step taken in faith, each cry for help, and each moment of recognition of His presence draws us closer to Him.

Remember, Christ’s love and faith in us are constants. Even when we waver, He remains steadfast. His call to trust Him without limits is an invitation to experience a peace that transcends understanding. So, in every storm, in every trial, let us fix our eyes on Him, for He is our peace, our strength, and our ever-present help.