Title: The Power of Focus/ Topic: Focus

Today's Reading: Matthew 14; Matthew 15; Matthew 16

Scripture: Matthew 14:28-31
28 "Lord, if it's you," Peter replied, "tell me to come to you on the water."
29 "Come," he said.
Then Peter got down out of the boat, walked on the water and came toward Jesus. 30But when he saw the wind, he was afraid and, beginning to sink, cried out, "Lord, save me!"
31 Immediately Jesus reached out his hand and caught him. "You of little faith," he said, "why did you doubt?"

Observation: Peter experiences the power of trusting in Jesus. He walks on water! Keeping his eyes on Jesus and acting on his faith, he step out of the boat and does what would be impossible on his own. But then he changes his focus from Jesus to the huge waves and strong wind ad starts to sink. When he calls out for help, Jesus immediately comes to Peter's rescue but questions why he doubted and succumbed to fear.

Application: This story is a great lesson and reminder to me to keep my eyes on Jesus. If I focus on the huge problems or obstacles that are impossible for me to solve or overcome, I will begin to sink under the weight of them as Peter sank beneath the waves. If I keep my focus on Jesus, I will not fear but will experience the miraculous power of Jesus that enable me to do what I could never do on my own.

Prayer: Thank you Lord that I don't ever have to limit myself to my own resources. You have given me your power to use in my life and have given me the ability to overcome anything through dependence on you. I only need to keep my focus on you where it needs to be. Keep me from distractions Lord.
This I pray in Jesus' name, Amen.