When Jesus’ disciples were caught in a terrifying storm on the Sea of Galilee, the Lord of the wind and waves walked on the water to get into the boat with them, telling them not to be afraid. Likewise, in our stresses and distresses, he is with us, ready to calm our fears, if only we give him all our worries and cares and trust his power, mercy and love.
Jesus Holds on to you in the Storm
9 August 2026 • Lay Reader
Bible Passage: Matthew 14:22-33
+ expandWalking on the water
22 Right then, Jesus made the disciples get into the boat and go ahead to the other side of the lake while he dismissed the crowds. 23 When he sent them away, he went up onto a mountain by himself to pray. Evening came and he was alone. 24 Meanwhile, the boat, fighting a strong headwind, was being battered by the waves and was already far away from land. 25 Very early in the morning he came to his disciples, walking on the lake. 26 When the disciples saw him walking on the lake, they were terrified and said, “It’s a ghost!” They were so frightened they screamed.
27 Just then Jesus spoke to them, “Be encouraged! It’s me. Don’t be afraid.”
28 Peter replied, “Lord, if it’s you, order me to come to you on the water.”
29 And Jesus said, “Come.”
Then Peter got out of the boat and was walking on the water toward Jesus. 30 But when Peter saw the strong wind, he became frightened. As he began to sink, he shouted, “Lord, rescue me!”
31 Jesus immediately reached out and grabbed him, saying, “You man of weak faith! Why did you begin to have doubts?” 32 When they got into the boat, the wind settled down.
33 Then those in the boat worshipped Jesus and said, “You must be God’s Son!”
Contemporary English Version (CEV) - for other versions see BibleGateway.com
