Just a few short weeks ago, we heard about finding faith during trials in Matthew 14:22-33 when Jesus walked to the disciples while the boat “was being tossed about by the waves, for the wind was against it.”

Right now, many of us may be experiencing our own challenges in faith. Our homes, our friends, our community, our city, our church are threatened or flooded with uncertainty, stress, and a long road of recovery ahead.  Do we have doubt? Do we find ourselves wondering – How can this really be God’s plan?

When Jesus spoke to the disciples, “Take courage, it is I; do not be afraid,” Peter, showing great faith, joined Jesus in walking upon the waves. “But when he saw how strong the wind was he became frightened and, beginning to sink, he cried out, “Lord Save me!”

Even the apostles and saints experienced darkness that caused them to call out – Lord, I Need You!

As confusing as it may be to grasp, sometimes difficulties and stress are necessary to help us grow in our faith. Faith is not a life of “chance,” but the conscious act of purposefully choosing a life with a God who loves us! During our testing times, we must reach deeper to find our faith.

Really, there are only two choices for people of faith –

Do we look up at the heavens and cry out in abandon, “Oh God Why?”

Or do we look deep within us and cry out in faith, “Oh, Lord Save Us.”

As a people of faith, we know that God never said it would be easy – He said there is a Life to Come. It is our human pride and sin that discourages us, that turns us away.  “We know that all things work for good for those who love God.” (Romans 8:28)

God has a plan for each of us.  Always.  He will sustain us during our struggles. Always.

“Immediately, Jesus stretched out his hand and caught Peter, and said to him, “O you of little faith, why did you doubt?”  After they got into the boat, the wind died down.