Fear of Faith

“Immediately He made the disciples get into the boat and go ahead of Him to the other side, while He sent the crowds away. After He had sent the crowds away, He went up on the mountain by Himself to pray; and when it was evening, He was there alone. But the boat was already a long distance from the land, battered by the waves; for the wind was contrary. And in the fourth watch of the night He came to them, walking on the sea. When the disciples saw Him walking on the sea, they were terrified, and said, ‘It is a ghost!’ And they cried out in fear. But immediately Jesus spoke to them, saying, ‘Take courage, it is I; do not be afraid.’

Peter said to Him, ‘Lord, if it is You, command me to come to You on the water.’ And He said, ‘Come!’ And Peter got out of the boat, and walked on the water and came toward Jesus. But seeing the wind, he became frightened, and beginning to sink, he cried out, ‘Lord, save me!’ Immediately Jesus stretched out His hand and took hold of him, and said to him, ‘You of little faith, why did you doubt?’ When they got into the boat, the wind stopped. And those who were in the boat worshiped Him, saying, ‘You are certainly God’s Son!’” Matthew 14:22-33

Paul Tournier, the eminent Swiss doctor, wrote in his book The Adventure of Work a profound assessment of the Christian life: “Life is an adventure directed by God.” The seed of life-changing faith is contained in such a view. It can be the difference between a confident, rewarding life or a timid, fretful one. When confronted with perplexity, it can be the hinge upon which swings the response of either fear or faith.

Fear comes when we are overwhelmed by the magnitude or implications of a situation. It swells to paralyzing proportions when we think of the possibility of disastrous consequences. It can submerge us in waves of anxiety and insecurity. But once we understand and embrace the truth that God is indeed in charge of our circumstances and has equipped us for every challenge, it is amazing how faith in Christ can change our outlook. Life isn’t risk-free. God has set a divine course for every believer that He oversees and directs with perfect wisdom and love.

Our faith is in His faithfulness to us, in His power that works on our behalf, in His grace that provides all our needs. God is in charge. Life is an exciting journey in trusting Him as our Guide and Companion. Begin the adventure today, and drop your fears at His feet. He won’t let you down.

Our faith is in God’s faithfulness.