Is there anything more frustrating than falling into recurring sin? Why do we ebb and flow in the spiritual life?
There is a clue in the Gospel of Matthew, where we see Peter ebb and flow in dramatic fashion.
Jesus made the disciples get into the boat and go before him to the other side…When evening came, the boat was being tossed about by the waves…. During the fourth watch of the night, he came toward them, walking on the sea. When the disciples saw him they were terrified. “It is a ghost.” At once [Jesus] spoke to them, “Take courage, it is I; do not be afraid.” Peter replied, “Lord, if it is you, command me to come to you on the water.” He said, “Come.” Peter got out of the boat and began to walk on the water toward Jesus. But when he saw how [strong] the wind was he became frightened; and, beginning to sink, he cried out, “Lord, save me!” Immediately Jesus stretched out his hand and caught him, and said to him, “O you of little faith, why did you doubt?”
Peter takes a leap of faith, trusting Jesus will support him. But as soon as he takes his eyes off Jesus, he begins to sink. We thrive in the spiritual life when our eyes are up, fixed on Jesus. We fall when we lose sight of him.
Let’s pray – Jesus our Redeemer. Help us to keep our eyes up and fixed on you, that we might abide in your love and the thrive in the life of holiness you designed us for. Amen.
This is Mike Kelly. You can find Pray For 2 at Prayfor2.com, or on the Redeemer Radio app.