When we focus incorrectly, be it deliberately or because of distractions, we sink or miss the mark.

Matthew 14 tells the story of Peter who lacked self-confidence and asked for help from Jesus who knew he and the other disciples on the boat were afraid. Jesus encouraged them to be courageous and to not be afraid. But Peter wanted confirmation that the person advancing toward them was really Jesus. So, he asked Jesus to call him. Jesus provided what Peter needed by telling him to “Come.”

Here is the cool part. Peter started walking on the water toward Jesus because he remained focused on him, even though he was nervous, and the terrain was unfamiliar. However, when Peter lost focus on Jesus by allowing himself to be distracted by elements in his environment, like the wind, he began to sink. Interestingly, he didn’t plunge into the water immediately. There was still time for Jesus to save him because he was not too far gone.

Again, Peter asked for help, “Lord save me,” and again Jesus knew what he need – not a response like “Come on Peter, eyes on me!” But Jesus stretched out his hand and pulled him up. Jesus then told Peter that he started to sink because he doubted. He needed to exhibit more faith.

You probably have the same thought I did. How could Peter have not doubted himself about walking on water, which he hadn’t done before and when there were strong windy distractions? I submit had he maintained focus in the right place, on Jesus, he would have remembered there was no reason to doubt.  Then the elements around him would not have mattered.

Let us remember to maintain focus in the right place – on Jesus. That looks like remembering to consult him regularly before taking bold steps. When we do so, we will successfully maneuver into new territory without being distracted. Even when we doubt and have missteps, Jesus still has the heart and time to restore us.

Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us,

(NIV, Ephesians 3:20)