I’m enjoying my more leisurely-paced daily reading through the New Testament. Today was Matthew 14 and 15, and here are a few of my notes:
14:13 As soon as Jesus heard the news, he went off by himself in a boat to a remote area to be alone.
Jesus knew the importance of getting away to a peaceful place.
14:22-24 Immediately after this, Jesus made his disciples get back into the boat and cross to the other side of the lake while he sent the people home. Afterward he went up into the hills by himself to pray. Night fell while he was there alone. Meanwhile, the disciples were in trouble far away from land, for a strong wind had risen, and they were fighting heavy waves.
The disciples obeyed Jesus (even obeyed Him immediately) and still the storm came. Storms do not always mean we are out of God’s will.
14:28 Then Peter called to him, “Lord, if it’s really you, tell me to come to you by walking on water.”
This wasn’t Peter’s head talking; this was from his heart.
14:29 “All right, come,” Jesus said. So Peter went over the side of the boat and walked on the water toward Jesus.
Jesus didn’t say “Stay there, Peter” or “Wait until you’re ready, Peter.” He said, “Come!” How awesome is that?
14:30-31 But when he looked around at the high waves, he was terrified and began to sink. “Save me, Lord!” he shouted. Instantly Jesus reached out his hand and grabbed him.
Jesus takes hold of me the instant I call out to Him.
How thankful I am for these reminders of His truth.
-rlh-
