Editor's note: Enjoy today's devotion from Walking the Line: 90 Devotions of Truth & Hope Based on the Faith of Johnny Cash by Johnny Cash.
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The Carpenter and I have established a line of communication—a kind of bond, and the bond has stood many tests and trials. He and I both know that many more trials will come, but He makes me know that because I am truly committed, that I profess Him and let Him know I need Him, He won’t let me slip too low or slide too far before He grabs hold again. ~ Johnny Cash
Then Peter got down out of the boat, walked on the water and came toward Jesus. But when he saw the wind, he was afraid and, beginning to sink, cried out, “Lord, save me!” Immediately Jesus reached out His hand and caught him. — Matthew 14:29–31 NIV
The kind of bond Johnny Cash talks about can be seen in Peter’s relationship with Jesus. Their bond endured more than a few tests and trials. And in one dramatic encounter, Peter discovered that Jesus would not let him slip too far.
The incident took place at sea. Peter and the other disciples were making a night crossing. In the middle of their journey, a huge wind kicked up. Waves pounded the vessel, threatening to capsize it. To add to the terror, the disciples saw someone walking toward them on the surface of the water.
Their fears eased when they recognized the figure as Jesus. Suddenly emboldened, Peter asked to join Jesus.
Jesus invited him onto the water, so Peter jumped overboard and walked toward the Lord.
Just for a moment, Peter stopped to consider the situation. He felt the wind and saw the waves. And he started to sink. But Jesus didn’t let him go under. He grabbed Peter’s hand and refocused his attention—away from the things that frightened him and back on Himself.
This extraordinary encounter offers some important takeaways that can strengthen our own bond with Jesus. First, Jesus rewards humble boldness. Peter didn’t jump out of the boat to get attention. Or because he thought it would be fun to walk on water. He did it because he wanted to be closer to Jesus.
Peter left the relative safety of his immediate circumstances to do something that others wouldn’t. Something that seemed risky to the people around him, but not to Peter, because His focus was on Jesus. And Jesus rewarded him with an absolutely unforgettable experience. A similar reward awaits everyone who steps out in faith.
The second takeaway is that Jesus didn’t calm the winds to make Peter’s walk easier. Instead, He helped Peter walk in the midst of the tumult. Likewise, Jesus will not make our journey wave-free. Trials strengthen us, toughen us, and deepen our relationship with the Lord. They also prepare us to help others who struggle. Jesus will not deprive us of these growth opportunities.
Jesus also let Peter feel the sensation of sinking. Peter took his eyes off the goal—off Jesus—and focused on the dangers and obstacles that surrounded him. And he momentarily paid the price for his distraction. Yet with a single cry, “Lord, save me!” Peter restored the connection. Jesus reached out to help him regain his footing. And He will do the same for anyone who cries out to Him in the midst of a trial.
Heavenly Father, thank You for making the bond possible with Your Son. Thank You for the extraordinary opportunities you give me to “step out onto the water” with Him. Give me the courage to leave my safety zone and the discipline to keep my focus on Jesus as I do. In His name. Amen.
Excerpted with permission from Walking the Line: 90 Devotions of Truth & Hope Based on the Faith of Johnny Cash by Johnny Cash, copyright The John R. Cash Revocable Trust.
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Your Turn
Are you in the middle of a trial? Cry out to Jesus! He will not let you sink even when you step out onto the water. ~ Devotionals Daily