After Peter stepped out of the boat to walk on the water, he began to consider the danger of the wind and waves. The scripture says, “Beginning to sink, he cried out, saying, Lord, save me” (Matthew 14:30 NKJ). Dangerous times are often accompanied by a sinking feeling.
At one time or another we can all relate to the sinking feeling that Peter experienced. But when our trust is firmly established in the Lord’s promise of protection, we can remain calm in spite of the wind and waves.
Peter’s prayer was short, but long enough to save him. It’s wonderful to know that it’s not the length but strength of our prayer that’s important. When we feel engulfed by fierce waters of difficulty, we can be confident that God has promised to save us and protect us. When we can do nothing, be assured—Jesus can do all things!
Psalm 20:7-8 says, “Some trust in chariots, and some in horses: but we will remember the name of the Lord our God. They are brought down and fallen: but we are risen, and stand upright” (KJV).
Today many people trust in riches, power, intelligence—even medicine or insurance. But as children of the Most High God, we are to put our trust in Him alone! Verse 8 from The New International Version says, “They are brought to their knees and fall, but we rise up and stand firm.”
Faith sees not only the triumph of the godly, but also the defeat of its enemies. The King of heaven cannot help but hear us when we call, for His kingdom is at stake. Psalms 34:17 assures us, “The Lord hears his people when they call to him for help. He rescues them from all their troubles” (NLT).
Jeremiah warns those who trust in mankind:
Cursed is the man who trusts in mankind and makes flesh his strength, and whose heart turns away from the Lord. For he will be like a bush in the desert and will not see when prosperity comes, but will live in stony wastes in the wilderness, a land of salt without inhabitant.
(Jer. 17:5-8 NASV)
Putting trust in the power, ability, strength, or wisdom of man brings the curse. This trust belongs to God alone, for He is the only One Who can deliver to the uttermost.
On the other hand, those who trust in the Lord will flourish:
For he will be like a tree planted by the water, that extends its roots by a stream and will not fear when the heat comes; but its leaves will be green, and it will not be anxious in a year of drought nor cease to yield fruit” (v. 8).
These people are protected from the dangerous consequences of the relentless, scorching heat. While others wither and fail, they enjoy safety and protection under the shelter of the Most High. They draw their strength from the Lord and continue to bear fruit.
While unbelievers will not see even when good comes, the believer shall not see when heat—or fiery trials come. The Bible says trials come upon the just and the unjust alike but the just shall not weaken under them, because the Lord is his strength and protection.
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Vikki and Dennis began as youth pastors in 1973 in Southern California where they received tremendous insight into the work of the local church. In 1976, they moved to Ft. Worth, Texas, to work with Kenneth Copeland Ministries. Vikki worked with KCM for three years before entering full-time ministry with her husband. Since that time, their relationship and involvement with Kenneth Copeland Ministries has continued. Vikki and Dennis have had numerous articles published in the Believer's Voice of Victory magazine.
Vikki has spoken in several nations including Australia, Japan, and Canada. She has ministered on television, radio, in women's conferences and marriage seminars. Her desire is to see people raised to a higher level of living through the Word of God. By acting on Gods principles, Vikki has obtained a testimony of victory and imparts encouragement to others.
Throughout the years, Vikki and Dennis have pursued new avenues of reaching people. The Lord has continued to expand their vision. Their dedication has affected thousands as they are impacting God's people with the love of God.