"Lord, why me?" was the question I found myself asking as I looked on at a series of seemingly unfortunate circumstances in my life.
O Ye of Little Faith
Faith- the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. This was a definition that I had memorised from childhood; yet had continued to struggle with its application into my adulthood.
I had begun to realise that as soon as I overcame one obstacle, another much bigger one was waiting just around the corner. Even though it seemed obvious that God would come through for me once more as he had done with my past trials, I was fearful. Much like Peter, I had asked God to allow me to meet him out on the water in order to test my faith.
However, when I actually stepped out onto the water to meet Jesus, I had become distracted by all of the possibilities that came with the raging wind and waves, and I started to sink.
Focus
Focusing on Jesus during my situation seemed literally as impossible as trying to focus on the figure of a man floating above a mass of water, in the middle of a thunder storm. How did God expect me to do that? Was that not asking too much of me? After all, I am only human.
However, in the midst of my short-sighted rant, I noticed that focus was a very small price to pay for God's supernatural intervention. He simply asks us to trust in him completely and not lean on our own, very limited understanding of things.
God's Resume
In the face of my new challenges, my faith was reignited not only by that realisation, but also my memory of God's track record of achievements in my life. Ireturned to a list that I had made in my journal of my prayer requests in tough situations.
Next to each one was a small box, within which, I would place a small check whenever my request was granted. I had also written down my requests that God chose to answer after a very long period of time or in a completely different way, causing those situations to work out even better than I had imagined.
His Grace
In addition to this, I could recall countless stories in the Bible of God working situations out for the good of his people, even when they doubted and did not give him the thanks and praises he deserved.
Yet, Peter's story makes it evident that even when we lose faith, take our eyes off of the saviour or become distracted by the many things happening around us. All we need to do is cry out to him for help and he will keep us from drowning.
New Approach
Therefore, when walking on the waters of uncertainty, may we keep our eyes focused ahead on the Saviour and remember his track record.
Also, if we ever find ourselves asking "Why me?" may we remember that God is the author and finisher of our faith, and as the popular quote says, "A faith that cannot be tested, cannot be trusted".
"Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go."
Joshua chapter 1 verse 9
Danielle Jones was born on the beautiful island of Barbados to phenomenal parents. She just completed her first degree in Theatre and is looking forward to her next step being ordered by God. She hopes to be fluent in Spanish very soon, do global missionary work and continue to be an example of the love of Christ.
Danielle Jones' previous articles may be viewed at http://www.pressserviceinternational.org/danielle-jones.html