When is it time to step out of the boat?
Let me explain. The storm was bad. Even Jesus’ disciples, who were experienced sailors, were scared. Storms on Galilee come quickly, and that night the sea was at its worst.
Bailing and praying, the disciples found the boat tossed like a toy. In the midst of the storm, Jesus walked on the water toward the disciples’ boat. That’s right, Jesus came walking on water. He came in the storm, body surfing the waves, strolling in the rain.
“Come on in, the water’s fine.”
One joined him. Eleven stayed in the boat. One walked on the water. Eleven stayed put. One ran the risk of faith. Eleven preferred the comfort zone.
Only one of twelve walked on the water.
Thus the question: when is it time to step out of the boat? Why don’t we step out of the boat? We fear failure.
“Will people think I’m foolish to step out into the storm?” “What will people think if I go back to school at my age?” “What will happen if I start my business in this recession?” “Will people think I’m crazy to enter politics?” “Was I really called to go to missions if I can’t raise the money?”
“Is this the time to go for my dream?”
“What if I step out of the comfort zone?”
In the comfort zone we don’t try anything new. “Oh, I can’t do that”. “I tried before but it didn’t work out.” “I don’t have the money, or the time, or the energy”.
“I’m too old.” I’m too young.” “They say it can’t be done.”
Sometimes we settle for the storm we know rather than trust what God is doing.
At other times our routines and habits make us feel secure. In the comfort zone we do what is simple and effortless. We never take a chance. We never run a risk.
John Maxwell coined the phrase “fail forward”. Use your failures to move forward. You have learned the hard way, don’t waste the lesson. Do it differently next time.
A failed effort does not define who you are. You are more than your mistakes. You are created in the image of God, one of his masterpieces. How can you be a failure if you bear the image of God?
Don’t be afraid of being afraid.
When is it time to step out of the boat?
When Jesus invites you to join what he is doing. Who knows? You may walk on the water.
