One of the most powerful moments in the Gospels is when Jesus walked on water. This miracle showed His authority over nature and His deep care for His followers. It reminds us that even when life feels stormy, Christ is still in control.
“Shortly before dawn Jesus went out to them, walking on the lake.” — Matthew 14:25 (NIV)
The Story
The event took place after Jesus had fed more than five thousand people. He sent His disciples ahead in a boat while He went up a mountain to pray alone. During the night, the wind and waves grew strong, and the disciples struggled to row against the storm.
“Later that night, he was there alone, and the boat was already a considerable distance from land, buffeted by the waves because the wind was against it.” — Matthew 14:23-24 (NIV)
When Jesus came toward them, walking on the water, they were terrified. They thought they were seeing a ghost. But Jesus spoke words of comfort.
“Take courage! It is I. Don’t be afraid.” — Matthew 14:27 (NIV)
Peter, full of faith, asked to come to Jesus on the water. As long as he kept his eyes on Jesus, he walked. But when he saw the wind, he began to sink. Jesus reached out His hand and saved him.
“Immediately Jesus reached out his hand and caught him. ‘You of little faith,’ he said, ‘why did you doubt?’” — Matthew 14:31 (NIV)
Meaning and Lessons
This story holds several lessons for believers:
- Faith over fear: When Peter focused on Jesus, he walked on water. Fear entered when he looked at the waves.
- Jesus is near in every storm: Even when the disciples felt alone, Jesus was already on His way to help.
- Doubt can sink us: Trusting in our own strength leads to fear, but trusting in Jesus keeps us steady.
Key Themes from the Story
| Theme | Description | Supporting Verse |
|---|---|---|
| Faith | Trusting Jesus even when life feels impossible | Matthew 14:29 |
| Fear | Losing focus on Christ leads to sinking | Matthew 14:30 |
| Rescue | Jesus reaches out when we call for help | Matthew 14:31 |
| Worship | The disciples worshiped Him afterward | Matthew 14:33 |
Other Bible References
The miracle is also recorded in the Gospel of Mark and John, showing how important it was to the early followers of Jesus.
“He saw the disciples straining at the oars, because the wind was against them. Shortly before dawn he went out to them, walking on the lake.” — Mark 6:48 (NIV)
“They saw Jesus approaching the boat, walking on the water; and they were frightened. But he said to them, ‘It is I; don’t be afraid.’” — John 6:19-20 (NIV)
Reflection
In life’s storms, we can often feel overwhelmed like Peter did. But faith reminds us to keep our eyes fixed on Jesus. When our focus is on Him, fear loses its power. The waves may rise, but His hand is always ready to lift us up.
“The Lord is my light and my salvation—whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life—of whom shall I be afraid?” — Psalm 27:1 (NIV)
