Peter, also known as Captain Foot-in-Mouth, is a man of great conviction who follows Jesus with all his heart; however, that does not mean he can be called Perfect Peter. It is Peter who ridiculously rebukes Jesus when the Lord announces that He is going to the cross. It’s Peter who errantly thinks it’s a good idea to build a tabernacle for Jesus, Moses and Elijah at the transfiguration. It’s Peter who denies Jesus after saying he would die first. Instead of “ready-aim-fire” Peter is more apt to “ready–fire–aim”.
One thing I love about Peter is that he is 100% human but that doesn’t mean he is devoid of any spiritual makeup. Peter is a genuine lover of the Lord. It’s just that he is so human in his personality. He is quick to commit and just as fast to retreat. He is very consistent yet he is a surprising contradiction. I love Peter because he helps me take a little pressure off of myself to be perfect and helps me forgive myself when I mess up. After all, the great apostle Peter wasn’t perfect either. But at least he is willing to dive into action to follow Jesus. Only Peter got out of the boat and walked on the water for a little bit.
Read Matthew 14:22-33 and then listen to Walk on the Water by Britt Nicole. (I need to remind you that listening to the songs after reading the devotionals and scriptures makes the devotional come to life.)
Matthew 14:22-33
Immediately afterward He compelled the disciples to get into the boat and to go ahead of Him to the other side, while He sent the crowds away. After He had sent the crowds away, He went up on the mountain by Himself to pray; and when it was evening, He was there alone. But the boat was already a long distance from the land, battered by the waves; for the wind was contrary. And in the fourth watch of the night He came to them, walking on the sea. When the disciples saw Him walking on the sea, they were terrified, and said, “It is a ghost!” And they cried out in fear. But immediately Jesus spoke to them, saying, “Take courage, it is I; do not be afraid.”
Peter responded and said to Him, “Lord, if it is You, command me to come to You on the water.” And He said, “Come!” And Peter got out of the boat and walked on the water, and came toward Jesus. But seeing the wind, he became frightened, and when he began to sink, he cried out, saying, “Lord, save me!” Immediately Jesus reached out with His hand and took hold of him, and *said to him, “You of little faith, why did you doubt?” When they got into the boat, the wind stopped. And those who were in the boat worshiped Him, saying, “You are truly God’s Son!”