Listen

Peter replied, “Lord, if it’s you, order me to come to you on the water.”

And Jesus said, “Come.”

Then Peter got out of the boat and was walking on the water toward Jesus. But when Peter saw the strong wind, he became frightened. As he began to sink, he shouted, “Lord, rescue me!”

Jesus immediately reached out and grabbed him, saying, “You man of weak faith! Why did you begin to have doubts?” When they got into the boat, the wind settled down.

Then those in the boat worshipped Jesus and said, “You must be God’s Son!”

Matthew 14:28-33

Think

When Peter sees Jesus walking across the water, he hesitates. Even though Jesus is right there in front of him, Peter still asks for proof: “If it is really you…” It’s a very human response. We often want certainty before we trust. We want guarantees before we take a step forward.

Sometimes we do the same thing with God. We ask for signs, proof, or clear answers before we are willing to trust that God is present and at work in our lives. But faith is not about having every question answered. Faith is choosing to trust even when things feel uncertain.

Renewal happens when we stop trying to test God’s presence and begin learning to notice it instead: in kindness, community, quiet moments, courage, beauty, and love. God is often already near before we recognize it.

Peter eventually steps out onto the water, not because all his fear disappeared, but because he chose trust over certainty for a moment. Maybe renewal begins there for us too.

Kristen Koger

Question to Ponder:

What helps you trust God’s presence, even when you do not have all the answers?

Pray

God, when I feel uncertain or afraid, help me trust that you are already near. Renew my faith when doubt and fear begin to take over. Teach me to notice your presence in everyday moments of life. Amen.

Go

Go into this day renewed in mind, heart, and spirit.

May you notice God’s presence in quiet moments, trust God through life’s storms, and journey with courage, compassion, and peace.

And may you remember that wherever you go, you are never alone.