Stepping Out Of the Boat
“But immediately Jesus spoke to them, saying, “Take heart; it is I. Do not be afraid.” And Peter answered him, “Lord, if it is you, command me to come to you on the water.” He said, “Come.” So Peter got out of the boat and walked on the water and came to Jesus.” ~ Matthew 14:27-29 (ESV)
The people who know me in real life can attest to that I am really a shy person. Some might even think that I am a snob; I really don’t mean to be…I am just quiet until I know the person for a little while. After the first ice is broken, I can be quite funny 🙂 …
Being shy can hinder in some cases though. As some of you might know I try to build a portrait business. In a business where you meet people for the first time at your appointment can be quite challenging. I remember my very first session. Oh…my heart was beating up to my throat; my hands were clam…the only thing I could do was send up a quick prayer “Lord, HELP!!!”
“But when he saw the wind, he was afraid, and beginning to sink he cried out, “Lord, save me.”” ~ Matthew 14:30 (ESV)
At my first session, I was like Peter; doubting — afraid! Although I did not try to walk on water; for me getting over my shyness is as much as Peter getting out of the boat. Terrifying to say the least.
Jesus immediately reached out his hand and took hold of him, saying to him, “O you of little faith, why did you doubt?” ~ Matthew 14:31 (ESV)
Sometimes we just have to step out of the boat; no matter how terrifying it might be. We know that we can trust Him every step we take — He has already been there — He knows the outcome. I have to say that my photo sessions have become much easier over the past 5 months. Not only do I trust Him to get me through the first 5 minutes of meeting a stranger; my love for photography is much greater than not stepping out of the boat 😛 …
Lord of Heaven and Earth. Thank You for Your hand reaching down, helping me through the tough moments I face. No matter what we go through, when we are afraid of something new, Lord give us the peace that only can come from You. I am trusting in Your mercy. In the precious name of Jesus ~ Amen.
As someone who has had the joy and honor of meeting you …I love you. I”m so glad to read about your stepping out of the boat. Believe me, I know how terrifying it can be. I struggle in other areas but it does test our faith. I think you are so talented and gifted Iris and the Lord will use you. After all, He’s the One who gave you the talent and He will see you through …as you trust Him.
Loved this post and I too needed this one.
Love you,
Debbie
Yes Great word today Iris. Not only do we need to step out of the boat (step out of our comfort zone) sometimes but as we step out we must remember that God was IN the boat with us all of the time and we don’t step out into troubled waters alone … He is with us. -love you, Laurie
And it is exciting because you know God carried you!!!! So proud of you.
Beautiful post Iris. As someone who is quite shy myself when meeting new people this word is quite timely and needed. Thanks for the reminder that when we trust Him and step out of the boat He is always there.
Thank you so much for this analogy. It seems like this has been a common theme in my life- getting out to the boat. Or, as I like to think of it, “let go and let God”. Everything you need to know is found in Jesus.
Hmmmmm I think God wanted me to read this tonight. Thank you!
Have a wonderful week 🙂
Such a great word sweetie, love you.
I am very shy, too, so I can really relate to your post…my pastor used this same title and text last Sunday for his message….hmmm….you think, maybe I needed to be reminded….again?