Get Out of the Boat!

 

He said, “Come ahead.”

Jumping out of the boat, Peter walked on the water to Jesus. But when he looked down at the waves churning beneath his feet, he lost his nerve and started to sink. He cried, “Master, save me!”

Jesus didn’t hesitate. He reached down and grabbed his hand. Then he said, “Faint-heart, what got into you?”

The two of them climbed into the boat, and the wind died down. The disciples in the boat, having watched the whole thing, worshiped Jesus, saying, “This is it! You are God’s Son for sure!”

(Matthew 14:29-33 MSG)

During the storms of life, when the boat you’re in is a place of refuge, it will surely take more than a little faith for you to get out of the boat.

As a matter of fact, it takes confident faith to hear the howling wind, feel the blustery weather against your skin, see the billowing waves and taste and smell the salty air yet get out of the boat. But that’s exactly what Jesus wants us to do.

Jesus is beckoning us to look at Him, remain strong in faith, and get out of the boat.

When you look away from Jesus and begin to focus on nothing else but your stormy circumstances, your faith is replaced by fear, and you start to sink into a state of utter uncertainty.

Instead, fix your gaze upon the One who can save. Ignore all your natural senses and trust Him and His love for you.

Then Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest.

(Matthew 11:28 NLT)

Get out of the boat and rest in Him.

Beloved, as you enter a new year, keep in mind that God knows the plan for your life, He designed it after all. His plan for you is not for disaster or harm but it’s to give you a future full of hope and promise (Jeremiah 29:11).

God loves you dearly and His plan for your life is sure and good and bigger than your circumstances.

 Amen †

 

 

Shelley Johnson “Get Out of the Boat!” ©2013, revisited December 31, 2025