Water walking

Immediately Jesus made the disciples get into the boat and go on ahead of him to the other side, while he dismissed the crowd. After he had dismissed them, he went up on a mountainside by himself to pray. Matthew 14:22-23

 

Jesus and the disciples had just fed 5,000 men and at least another 5,000 women and children. What a miracle, what an extraordinary time to call attention to what just happened. Instead, the disciples, jaws dropped in amazement as they picked up the leftovers, were dismissed by Jesus to their next assignment on a trip to the other side of the lake. While scratching their head in wonderment, Jesus proceeded to dismiss the crowd with full stomachs, as He made His way up the mountain to pray. The Son of God needed time with His father for refreshment.

 

Filled with His prayerful and loving exchange with His Father, Jesus made His way down the mountain to the edge of the lake, only to walk on water toward the disciples who were feeling alarmed and clamoring in fear. Jesus, refreshed in prayer, had prepared His heart so He was ready for His next assignment. Prayer was His protection and preparation. Has your heart been prepared by prayer for your next season of service, so you might “walk on water” to help calm those fearful and feeling alone?

 

Your successes are your opportunity to acknowledge the Lord as the source of your ability to succeed in life. Celebrate, but keep Christ central with gratitude for His goodness. Abide in Him by being still and quiet in prayer. By giving all glory to God, you are able to rest assured that pride will melt in the sight of your surrender to ungodly ambition. You are protected from the pride of success as you humbly acknowledge the Lord’s favor on your life. Perhaps your current successes are preparation for God’s next moment to “walk on water”. 

 

Our Prayer:  Father God, thank you for any successes I have experienced because of Your hand upon my life, Continue to use me to serve and influence others for you.  Amen.