In this episode, we explore the critical role of obedience in the realm of the miraculous, drawing inspiration from the bold action of Peter as described in Matthew 14:29. We will discuss the challenges and rewards of stepping out in faith to perform miracles and provide practical guidance on how to respond to God's call.
Our springboard for today’s discussion is: Matthew 14:29: "'Come,' he said. Then Peter got down out of the boat, walked on the water and came toward Jesus."
This moment encapsulates the essence of miraculous obedience—responding to Jesus' call against all odds.
The act of performing miracles often begins with a simple, yet profound act of obedience. Like Peter stepping out onto the water, we are sometimes called to move beyond the boundaries of the natural into the supernatural.
The Role of Obedience in Activating Miraculous Powers:
Immediate Response: Miraculous moments often require an immediate and affirmative response to God’s call, much like Peter’s decision to step out of the boat.
Trust Over Fear: Choosing to focus on Jesus and His power rather than the overwhelming circumstances or potential risks involved.
Challenges and Rewards of Stepping Out in Faith:
Facing Doubt and Fear: The decision to engage in miraculous acts can be daunting, facing internal doubts and external skepticism.
Experiencing God’s Power: The reward of obedience in the miraculous is the firsthand experience of God’s power and the deepening of personal faith.
Practical Advice on Responding to God’s Promptings:
Stay Spiritually Prepared: Maintain a life of prayer and fasting to keep your spirit attuned to God’s voice.
Seek Confirmation: When you feel called to act in a miraculous way, seek confirmation through Scripture and wise counsel from spiritual mentors.
Act in Community: Whenever possible, engage with the community of believers to support and strengthen your faith as you step out.
Conclusion
Responding to God’s call to perform miracles requires courage and faith but brings with it profound spiritual growth and witness to His kingdom. It is an invitation to participate in God’s work on earth, demonstrating His love and power to the world.
A Question of the Day: What fears or hesitations might be holding you back from stepping out in faith to perform miracles as God directs?
Growth Challenge: Reflect on a time when you felt a prompt from God to do something beyond your natural ability. Commit this week to take one step toward that calling, whether it’s through further prayer, seeking counsel, or taking a preliminary action. Journal the process and any outcomes.
Let’s Pray: Father, we thank You for the privilege to be part of Your miraculous works. Strengthen our faith and resolve to obey Your calls, no matter how daunting they may seem. Help us to keep our eyes on You, trusting in Your power to do what only You can do through us. Amen.
As we move forward, let us be inspired by Peter’s example of bold faith. May we too hear Jesus’ call to 'come,' and may we step out in faith, ready to walk on the waters of the impossible. Let’s embrace our calling with courage and expect to see God move in extraordinary ways. Let’s get to work.
24-255 Stepping Out in Faith: Obeying God’s Call to the Miraculous