S.O.S. – In Need of Rescue: The Lifeguard Series (Week 5) [Friday Devotionals with Terra]- Episode 485

As we wrap up the “S.O.S. In Need of Rescue: The Life Guard Series,” let’s quickly recap what we’ve covered so far:

1. Week One:

   We explored the role of a lifeguard and how they protect and rescue us.
   
   

2. Week Two:

   We unpacked the story of Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden and discussed how Jesus saves us from deception.
   
   

3. Week Three:

   We examined the worst kind of deception—self-deception.
   
   

4. Week Four:

   We saw the beautiful reality that Jesus saves us from the power and penalty of sin.
   
   

If you missed any part of this series, links to each week’s message are in the show notes.

Jesus Saves Us When We Step Out in Faith

Today, we’ll encourage our souls with the reality that Jesus saves us when we step out in faith. The Bible is full of incredible examples of this truth. For instance:

• Joshua and the Israelites:

  In Joshua 3, the priests had to step into the Jordan River with the Ark of the Covenant before the waters parted.
  
  

• Daniel and his friends:

  In the book of Daniel, we see multiple stories of Daniel and his friends committing to honor God even in a foreign land under a king who did not respect their God, and God miraculously intervened in their situations.
  
  

The Story of Peter Walking on Water

Today, we’ll focus on a story about Peter found in Matthew 14:22-33. Here’s a brief summary:

Context:

• ✦ Peter had just witnessed Jesus feed over 5,000 people with five loaves and two fish. This miracle demonstrated Jesus’ provision not only for the crowd but also for the disciples, as they collected 12 baskets of leftovers.
  
  
• ✦ Jesus sent the disciples ahead of Him across the Sea of Galilee while He dismissed the crowd and went to pray.
  
  

The Event:

• ✦ In the fourth watch of the night (3 am to 6 am), the disciples were in a boat being beaten by waves during a storm.
  
  
• ✦ Jesus walked on the water towards them, and they were terrified, thinking He was a ghost. But Jesus reassured them, saying, “Take heart; it is I. Do not be afraid.”
  
  
• ✦ Peter asked Jesus to command him to come to Him on the water. Jesus said, “Come,” and Peter stepped out of the boat and walked on the water.
  
  
• ✦ As Peter noticed the strong wind, he became afraid and began to sink. He cried out, “Lord, save me,” and Jesus immediately reached out and saved him, saying, “O you of little faith, why did you doubt?”
  
  
• ✦ Once they got back into the boat, the wind ceased, and the disciples worshiped Jesus, acknowledging Him as the Son of God.
  
  

Lessons from Peter’s Experience

1. Ask Yourself, “What has God put in my heart to do?”

• Peter had the desire to walk on the water to Jesus, which likely came from God. Similarly, if you have a desire that seems bigger than you and aligns with God’s will, it may be from Him.
  
  

2. Ask God, “Is this from You?”

• Before stepping out of the boat, Peter asked Jesus for confirmation. We should also seek God’s guidance and confirmation before taking steps of faith.
  
  

3. If the Answer is Yes, Then Do It

• Jesus’ command to Peter to “Come” gave him the authority to walk on the water. When God calls us, He provides the strength and ability to accomplish what seems impossible.
  
  

When the Storms Scare and Distract Us

When you find yourself distracted or scared by the storms around you:

1. Refocus on Jesus

• Peter began to sink when he focused on the storm instead of Jesus. Choose to focus on Jesus, remembering His faithfulness in your life and in the lives of others.
  
  

2. Ask Jesus for Help

• When Peter cried out for help, Jesus immediately saved him. James 1:5 reminds us that if we lack wisdom, we should ask God, who gives generously without finding fault. Trust that Jesus will provide the help and resources you need.

Application

Reflect on these steps and consider how they apply to your own life. What has God put in your heart to do? Have you asked Him for confirmation? If He has said yes, then step out in faith, knowing that He will support you and save you when you call out to Him. Keep your focus on Jesus and trust in His provision and guidance.

Thank you for being a part of this series! Remember, Jesus saves us when we step out in faith. Let’s keep our eyes on Him and trust in His faithfulness.