In the Gospel of Matthew 14: 22-33 the account of Jesus walking on water is recorded. During this account Peter requests the Lord commands him to also walk on water. Jesus does and Peter hops out and heads toward Jesus. As Peter is going along he takes his eyes off Jesus and sees the terrifying world around him. Peter has a momentary lapse of faith and begins to sink.
There are many viewpoints about what occurred during that interaction. Most points land on how Peter “took his eyes off Jesus” and that caused his loss of faith. However, I heard a different perspective that I found very intriguing. This point of view is pointed out with this question, “Who did Peter lose faith in?”
Jesus was having no problem walking on water. Peter didn’t start to sink because he didn’t think Jesus could walk on water. Peter sank because Peter didn’t believe Peter could walk on water.
Not believing you can do something usually leads to you not being able to accomplish that task or goal. Before you can share faith with others you must be aware of who you are and what you have faith in.
The second Law of Discipleship is the Law of Awareness.
You must know who you are and Whose you are before you can tell or show others.
“Let us test and examine our ways, and return to the LORD.” Lamentations 3:40 (ESV, bible.com)
Evaluate who you are.
A key factor in discipleship is service. Test how you serve others.
Do you like how you are serving in your church community? Are you serving the church community?
Do you like how you share your faith with others?
Are you uncomfortable when engaging non-believers about the Gospel?
What is uncomfortable about it?
What do you like to do? (This doesn’t have to be something religious like praying or singing worship songs).
Do you have the skills to serve the way you would like?
Get an unbiased opinion on this. William Hung wanted to lead worship but lacked the skill.
What is your motive for wanting to serve the way you would like? Check your motive.
Do you know what to do? What choices, actions, or accountability do you need to start?
Is there someone serving the way you would like to serve?
Will you Pay the price?
When can you start doing what you would like to do?
Be Aware of who you are so you have faith to share with others.