Matthew 14:22-33, shares the story of Jesus walking on water and Peter’s bold request to
join Him. Peter steps out of the boat and begins to walk toward Jesus, but as he notices the stormy winds and waves, his faith falters, and he starts to sink. This story is often viewed through the lens of Peter “taking his eyes off Jesus,” but there is another intriguing perspective to consider: who did Peter lose faith in?
Why did Peter sink?
Jesus’ ability to walk on water was never in question. Peter didn’t begin to sink because he doubted Jesus’ power; he sank because he doubted himself. He lost faith in his ability to do what Jesus had called him to do. This shift in perspective highlights a profound truth about faith: before you can inspire others to believe, you must first believe in what God has enabled you to do.
This idea ties closely to the Law of Awareness, the second law of discipleship. To disciple others effectively, you must know who you are and Whose you are. Lamentations 3:40 says, “Let us test and examine our ways, and return to the LORD” (ESV). This verse encourages self-examination and alignment with God’s purpose, a key step in becoming a servant leader who can guide others.
Reflection Questions for Awareness:
Evaluate Your Service:
Are you satisfied with how you serve in your church or community?
Are you actively serving?
Reflect on Sharing Faith:
Do you feel confident sharing your faith with others?
What aspects of engaging with non-believers make you uncomfortable?
Discover Your Gifts:
What do you genuinely enjoy doing? This doesn’t need to be overtly religious.
Do you have the necessary skills to serve in the way you envision?
Seek Honest Feedback:
Ask trusted individuals for their perspective on your abilities and approach.
Be open to constructive criticism, like recognizing limitations in a specific area, as William Hung did when he realized he lacked the skills to lead worship.
Check Your Motives:
Why do you want to serve in a particular way? Is your motive aligned with glorifying God or fulfilling personal desires?
Create a Plan:
What steps, actions, or accountability measures will help you grow?
Who can mentor or guide you in serving the way you aspire to?
Count the Cost:
Are you willing to pay the price, whether in time, effort, or resources, to serve effectively?
Take Action:
When can you start putting your plan into practice?
A tie in...
John Maxwell’s leadership principles provide additional insight into this process of growth and discipleship. Here are some key principles to integrate:
The Law of Intentionality: Growth doesn’t just happen. Like Peter stepping out of the boat, you must take intentional steps toward your goals. Identify areas where you need to grow and commit to actionable steps.
The Law of the Lid: Your leadership ability determines your level of effectiveness. As you develop self-awareness and confidence in your God-given abilities, your capacity to lead and influence others will increase.
The Law of Influence: Leadership is influence, nothing more, nothing less. Reflect on how your faith and actions inspire or impact those around you.
The Law of Reflection: Learning to pause allows growth to catch up with you. Take time to reflect on your experiences, challenges, and victories, and use these moments to deepen your faith and refine your leadership.
The Law of Sacrifice: A leader must give up to go up. Just as Peter had to leave the safety of the boat, you may need to step out of your comfort zone or make sacrifices to fulfill your calling.
The beginning ....
Peter’s moment of sinking wasn’t the end of his journey; it was a learning moment that shaped his faith. Likewise, self-awareness is not about focusing on weaknesses but about understanding who you are in Christ. Knowing your strengths, limitations, and purpose allows you to walk boldly in faith and inspire others to do the same. By incorporating Maxwell’s leadership principles, you can intentionally grow as a disciple and leader, equipping yourself to step out of the boat and walk toward Jesus, even in life’s storms.
If you'd like a partner to walk along side of you as you grow in your faith, please schedule a discovery session! https://www.leadershipharbor.com/discovery-session