Where do you find the strength to carry on?

@annierose (19307)
Philippines
April 26, 2024 8:10am CST
When my nephew was still a toddler, I recall how much he loved being thrown up in the air by his father. He was so delighted while his father did this to him. He didn't mind the possibility of falling. He had the trust that his father would catch him. Peter's response in the book of Matthew reflects a similar trust and faith in Jesus. Peter, Matthew, and the rest of the disciples are in a boat, struggling to cross the Sea of Galilee at a slow pace (Matthew 14:22). The strong wind and rough seas force them to row late into the night (Matthew 14:24). Their fatigue turns to fear when they see a figure walking on the waves, emerging from the darkness and approaching their boat (Matthew 14:25-26). Jesus reassures them that it is Him and tells them not to be afraid (Matthew 14:27). Peter's reaction is striking and would have been surprising from anyone else. He shouts to the figure on the water, requesting that if it really is Jesus, He would instruct Peter to come to Him on the water. Peter's confidence was not of his own ability, nor on the skills of his companions, but in the one calling him. Peter trusted that He could do the unnatural or the impossible, and he also expected that he would not be harmed if Jesus was the one commanding him. Instead of discouraging him from stepping into danger, Jesus replied "Come!" By this time, Peter had witnessed the greatness of Jesus and was gradually developing even greater trust in the Lord. He knew that Jesus was his true source of strength. I sometimes feel overwhelmed, depressed, and lonely. But then, every time I turn my eyes upon Jesus, I feel like I regained my strength. Reading the Psalms and the stories in the Bible give me the courage to face any adversities that come along the way for I know I can only find true peace with Jesus. It is good to keep this in our heart that can serve as a good reminder that we always have a great God by our side. Philippians 4:13 "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me."
3 people like this
3 responses
@just4him (307744)
• Green Bay, Wisconsin
26 Apr
Yes, when we keep our eyes on Jesus, we have nothing to fear because He gives us strength to face the day and whatever comes our way. Good devotion.
1 person likes this
@annierose (19307)
• Philippines
26 Apr
I will keep that in my heart. Thank you Valerie for the appreciation.
1 person likes this
@just4him (307744)
• Green Bay, Wisconsin
27 Apr
@annierose You're welcome.
1 person likes this
@annierose (19307)
• Philippines
28 Apr
1 person likes this
@capirani (2753)
• United States
27 Apr
Jesus is my ONLY strength to keep going. Life is so difficult at times, sometimes more difficult times than not. If not for Jesus I would not be here. Thank you for your topic on this. I love the story of Peter walking on the water to Jesus. Years ago I wanted to try to write a book about my life and call it Walking on Water With Job's Friends because that is what faith is like much of the time. You are hanging on by threads while those around you, even other believers, don't have the faith you have. They try to stop you from taking your step of faith by their logic and reason. I never wrote the book. But I never forgot the idea. The other disciples in that boat with Peter didn't want him to get out. I mean, crazy idea, right? Our faith is often undermined by those friends we have who are true believers. But our faith experiences differ, and we don't always believe as faithfully as others in our groups. But if we do not step out on our faith, our faith won't grow. Thank you.
1 person likes this
@dya80dya (33813)
26 Apr
This is amazing. I can't find the strength to carry on.
1 person likes this
@annierose (19307)
• Philippines
26 Apr
We are only humans and have our own weaknesses. It is understandable. What we can do is to keep our faith in God all the time.