31)And immediately Jesus stretched out His hand and caught him....."
What I want you to notice is the word "immediately" in Chapter 14, verses 27 and verse 31.
If that was'nt bad enough, lo and behold the disciples think they see a ghost walking on the water and headed right for them.
They not only thought they were seeing a ghost, but they thought for sure they were about to become one!
One moment they are trying to stay afloat in the boat and keep out of the water. Then they see what they think is a ghost and they are probably tripping all over each other trying to crawl off the boat on the other side to get away from the ghost. The Bible says they were afraid. Verse 26 says "they cried out for fear". They were very afraid! What was Jesus' response to them? In verse 27 it says "immediately" Jesus spoke to them saying: "Be of good cheer. It is I. Do not be afraid!" In the Greek language the word "immediately" means"at once". "Immediately, or at once" Jeusus seeks to calm their fears. Ok..back to the scenario.
They see that it is Jesus coming toward them and not a ghost.
"Whew! What a relief!" Now they can turn their attention back to being drown by the storm..
We know the rest of the story how Peter came out onto the water and sank.
There in verse 31 is where "immediately" is used again. The Bible says:v31
"And immediately Jesus stretched out His hand and caught him... No where do we read that Jesus let Peter flounder around in the water.
No where do we read that Jesus tried to teach Peter a lesson by leaving him in peril or need.
Jesus reaction was not one of "Doubt Me will you? OK...try to get yourself out of this mess..."
NO!
"Immediately" Jesus was there with big strong hands and arms to save Peter and pull him to safety. Remember when emotional and physical storms come (and they will come), all you need to do is cry out to the Lord. He will hear your cry and "immediately" He will be there for you.
By faith reach out and take the Masters big strong hand, and be pulled to safety.
Father, I thank You that Your ear is always open to the cries of Your children. As I face the storms in my life, remind me Father, that "immediately" You are there to help me
