Matthew-14
Walking on Water: A Devotional Study on Matthew 14
Introduction
The Fourth Gospel account of Jesus' ministry tells of Jesus walking on water. This miraculous event awakens profound spiritual insights and encourages us to reflect on our relationship with Jesus. As we dive into Matthew 14, let's engage in a devotional journey that explores the depths of our spiritual walk.
Section 1: Jesus' Withdrawal (Matthew 14:1-2)
Devotional Thought: Jesus' disciples board a boat in the midst of a stormy sea. Following Jesus' call to come and see, they retreat, trying to make sense of the frenzied waters. Jesus too, withdraws to pray, and learns about the news of John the Baptist's beheading. Like the disciples, we too need to draw near to Jesus, trusting in His power and strength to guide us through our circumstances.
Reflection Questions:
- Are you withdrawing from life's storms and seeking Jesus' presence?
- How can you deepen your trust in Jesus' power and strength to guide you through challenging circumstances?
Section 2: Jesus' Command (Matthew 14:22-23)
Devotional Thought: Jesus calls to his disciples in the midst of the turmoil, beckoning them to come to Him, as they have done before. In our lives, Jesus similarly calls us to follow. Our response, as His disciples, is to trust in His direction and obey His commands.
Reflection Questions:
- How often do you heed Jesus' call to follow Him?
- Are you actively responding to His call in areas where obedience may be difficult?
Section 3: The Disciples' Fear (Matthew 14:25-27)
Devotional Thought: Feeling the weight of the wind and waves, the disciples cry out in fear, "It is a ghost!" Yet Jesus encourages them, "Take heart, it is I, do not be afraid." Our fears are not unfamiliar to the disciples' experience. Let's surrender these fears to Jesus and keep calm and trust in His sovereignty.
Reflection Questions:
- What fears do you have in your spiritual walk?
- How can you surrender these fears to Jesus and trust in His sovereignty?
Section 4: Jesus' Miracle (Matthew 14:28-32)
Devotional Thought: The disciples' faithless fear gives way to profound amazement as Jesus walks on the water, revealing His identity. The disciples' "True, it is you" underscores their recognition and worship. May we too, like the disciples, recognize Jesus' miracles and respond with heartfelt worship.
Reflection Questions:
- What miracles in your spiritual walk have evoked your worship and faith?
- How can you respond with heartfelt worship when confronted with Jesus' miracles?
Conclusion:
As we conclude our devotional journey through Matthew 14, let's draw near to Jesus, follow His call, surrender our fears, and worship Him as we observe His miracles. These spiritual truths awaken genuine reverence and aid in cultivating a strong spiritual walk. May we continue to walk by faith, adhering to Jesus' direction and trusting in His guidance through the storms of life.