Later that night, he was there alone, and the boat was already a considerable distance from land, buffeted by the waves because the wind was against it.
Shortly before dawn Jesus went out to them, walking on the lake. When the disciples saw him walking on the lake, they were terrified. “It’s a ghost,” they said, and cried out in fear. But Jesus immediately said to them: “Take courage! It is I. Don’t be afraid.”
“Lord, if it’s you,” Peter replied, “tell me to come to you on the water.” “Come,” he said. Then Peter got down out of the boat, walked on the water and came toward Jesus. But when he saw the wind, he was afraid and, beginning to sink, cried out, “Lord, save me!” Immediately Jesus reached out his hand and caught him. “You of little faith,” he said, “why did you doubt?” And when they climbed into the boat, the wind died down. Then those who were in the boat worshiped him, saying, “Truly you are the Son of God.”

Fear can cause paralysis, retreat, anxiety, cowardice, mental illness, and poor decisions. When fear owns us and rules us, we are not at peace and cannot love well.

“This is how love is made complete among us so that we will have confidence on the day of judgment: In this world we are like Jesus. There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love. We love because he first loved us.” ‭‭(I John‬ ‭4‬:‭17‬-‭19‬)

Jesus is allowing the disciples to face their fears. One time he was sleeping in the boat (Matthew 8:23-27). This time he is away all together, praying atop a mountain. And not only do they face the fear of dying by drowning, they face the fear of seeing the undead — a ghost.

Once they realize it is Jesus walking on water, I think Peter starts to understand Jesus’ lessons on fear. He decides to face one of his fears, drowning. He asks Jesus to let him walk on the water.

Consider this: Peter either could not swim or was far enough away from the boat to not be able to swim back when he faltered in his faith and looked at the waves. Why do I know this? Because he had to ask Jesus for help!

Faith involves setting aside fear and taking a risk that the person or thing we place faith in will come through. Peter placed his faith in Jesus for a time, then he faltered. It is a good thing Jesus was gracious and rescued him.

How can I step out in faith and trust God in an area where fear has once ruled over me?

Lord, thank you for challenging your disciples to face their fears and have faith in you. This allowed them to perfect their love. I know you can continue to help me to perfect my love by letting go of fear too.