Peter Sank

Matthew 14:28-30 (ESV)

28 And Peter answered him, “Lord, if it is you, command me to come to you on the water.” 29 He said, “Come.” So Peter got out of the boat and walked on the water and came to Jesus. 30 But when he saw the wind, he was afraid, and beginning to sink he cried out, “Lord, save me.”

I read a story about a family gathered around the kitchen table as mom read the devotional message for the day. It was the story of Peter walking on the water.

After the mom finished reading and praying, one of the kids surprised his mom with these words. “Hey guys,” he said, addressing everyone in the family. “I know why Peter sank.”

His mother had a doubtful look in her eye but gestured for him to continue. “It’s simple,” he said. “Peter quit lookin’ at Jesus.”

Yes, that is what happened. Peter took his eyes off of the Lord and instead focused on the wind and the waves. That’s when he started going under.

That simple explanation is true, not only for Peter but also for us. When you take your eyes off of Jesus and look at your situation, you may find yourself sinking. Keep your focus where it belongs—on the Lord.

Dear Lord, help us to keep our eyes on You in everything we do. We know that when we focus on other things we will sink. In the Name of Jesus, Amen.