Feigned Faith

The Bible says, “And Peter answered him and said, Lord, if it be thou, bid me come unto thee on the water. And he said, Come. And when Peter was come down out of the ship, he walked on the water, to go to Jesus. But when he saw the wind boisterous, he was afraid; and beginning to sink, he cried, saying, Lord, save me. And immediately Jesus stretched forth his hand, and caught him, and said unto him, O thou of little faith, wherefore didst thou doubt?” Matthew 14:28-31 (KJV)

Old Joe was dying. For years he had been at odds with Bill, formerly one of his best friends. Wanting to straighten things out, he sent word for Bill to come and see him.

When Bill arrived, Joe told him that he was afraid to go into eternity with such a bad feeling between them. Then, very reluctantly and with great effort, Joe apologized for things he had said and done. He also assured Bill that he forgave him for his offenses. Everything seemed fine until Bill turned to go. As he walked out of the room, Joe called out after him, “But, remember, if I get better, this doesn’t count!”

How much we are like Peter and old Joe. We demonstrate belief when we are drawing closer to Jesus but when the waters are troubled we begin to sink.

We confess and attempt to seek forgiveness but cling on to supposed mistreatments instead of truly, unreservedly seeking restoration.

Let’s encourage one another to be honest with our Creator, those around us and with ourselves. Let’s not make pie shell promises (easily made, easily broken) “But let your communication be, Yea, yea; Nay, nay: for whatsoever is more than these cometh of evil.” Matthew 5:37 (KJV)

         Daily Chronological Bible Reading: John 9:1-41; John 10:1-21