Why Do We Fall?

Peter saw Jesus walking on the water and wanted to do the same. So he asked Jesus to call him. Jesus called, and Peter stepped out onto the water.

We know the story well. As long as his eyes were fixed on Jesus, Peter did fine. But soon pride entered his heart, and he began to think, Oh! I’m walking on the water! Are my friends seeing this? When he turned and lost his focus, Peter started to sink. “Lord! Save me!” he shouted, and immediately Jesus took hold of his hand and lifted him to his feet. In taking his eyes off Jesus, Peter saw the wild waves. What if one of them should knock him over? What if he could not keep his footing? He forgot the only reason he was able to walk on water was because of Jesus’ power. Looking unto Jesus, Peter walks securely; but as in self-satisfaction he glances back toward his companions in the boat, his eyes are turned from the Saviour. The wind is boisterous. The waves roll high, and come directly between him and the Master; and he is afraid. For a moment Christ is hidden from his view, and his faith gives way.

He begins to sink. But while the billows talk with death, Peter lifts his eyes from the angry waters, and fixing them upon Jesus, cries, “Lord, save me.” Immediately Jesus grasps the outstretched hand, saying, “O thou of little faith, wherefore didst thou doubt?” Walking side by side, Peter’s hand in that of his Master, they stepped into the boat together. But Peter was now subdued and silent. He had no reason to boast over his fellows, for through unbelief and self-exaltation he had very nearly lost his life. When he turned his eyes from Jesus, his footing was lost, and he sank amid the waves.* How often have we become proud, forgetting the grace and power of Jesus who has blessed us? How many times have we become successful because of our close fellowship with the Lord and the power He provides? When we lose focus—we fall. May we remember that Christ is always beside us, and He alone can rescue us.

Lord, help me keep my faith, focus, and trust in You alone. Amen.