“Yes, come," Jesus said.  So Peter went over the side of the boat and walked on the water toward Jesus. But when he saw the strong wind and the waves, he was terrified and began to sink. “Save me, Lord!” he shouted. Jesus immediately reached out and grabbed him. “You have so little faith,”Jesus said. “Why did you doubt me?”  When they climbed back into the boat, the wind stopped. Then the disciples worshiped him. “You really are the Son of God!” they exclaimed.

MATTHEW 14:28-32 NLT

I am pretty certain that I was in the same Sunday evening class as the friend who spoke to Nate. We discussed Jesus walking on the water and Peter's reaction. My understanding of it has always been that he became afraid when he focused on the elements, taking his focus off of Jesus. This is what made him sink like a rock.

Our discussion pointed out that Peter lost faith in himself, in his worth as talmid to his rabbi, Jesus. He had not lost faith in Christ per se but instead lost faith in his ability to be a disciple. Like a tightrope walker that realizes that he is hundreds of feet in the air and suddenly has a reason to be afraid. We cannot act in His name, let Him shine and work through us if we stay sequestered in our safe little boxes. Cannot walk on the water if we don't get out of the boat..... Peter doubted himself which ultimately means he doubted that Christ could or would take care of things.

Ever act like Peter?

K