Training for Failure

Immediately He made the disciples get into the boat and go ahead of Him to the other side, while He dismissed the crowds. – Matthew 14:45 HCSB

It’s amazing how the cycles of life affect us. Even the Son of God was subject to them. Jesus’ popularity had grown to the point that He had to preach from a boat floating offshore so that the crowds could see and hear Him.[1] Even his hometown people were at first amazed by His wisdom and power.[2] Soon, however, the crowd’s amazement transformed into jealousy and resentment.[3]

Another cycle began when His power became so famous that even Herod thought Jesus was John the Baptist resurrected![4] Huge crowds followed the Master. Yet, then, He couldn’t be alone. [5] He had to miraculously feed thousands[6] before He finally got some down time. And that only came because He eventually ordered everyone away.[7]

Up, down, up, down. These cycles are exhausting but necessary. Those who exercise know that it is impossible to stay at the peak of fitness constantly. Body builders aren’t “cut” all the time. They allow a certain percentage of fat to accumulate between contests because it’s healthy and safe. If they remained as cut as they appear on competition day, they would become sick and prone to injury. The trick is to time physical peaks to coincide with the moment of competition. In life, thankfully, we have the Master Coach.

The disciples had not only seen the amazing miracles, but also how their Lord handled the down times. They were ready for the next big cycle.

Notice something important in the text. Jesus SENT them into the storm. He sent them into a situation where they would be exhausted by rowing three or four miles[8] (too far to swim [9]), and would be battered by a storm,[10] with high winds[11] and churning waves.[12] He deliberately sent them into this mess.

Then, Jesus gave the disciples the critical nudge. He demonstrated His mastery over the elements by walking on water, pretending as though He would pass by, leaving them stranded[13]. Yet, because Peter was ready for the test, he actually got to walk on water!

God will cycle you through the ups and downs of life, but everything will be designed for your improvement.[14] At times, He will send you directly into a storm where you may be tempted, not to doubt His power, but perhaps His care. Persevere. Keep rowing. Keep struggling even in your darkest hour. And when the critical moment arrives and you feel like you have lost all hope, with one last surge of faith and hope, step out by faith even more – even if it means right out onto the stormy waters themselves.[15]

Jesus will catch you. Even if you ultimately buckle, He will be there for you.[16] And when you see His compassion and ability to save, you too will be able to say, “Truly You are the Son of God!”[17]

[1] Matthew 13:1-52
[2] Matthew 13: 53-54
[3] Matthew 13:55-58
[4] Matthew 14:1-12
[5] Matthew 14:13
[6] Matthew 14:14-21
[7] Matthew 14:22-23
[8] John 6:19
[9] Matthew 14:24
[10] Mark 6:48
[11] Matthew 14:24
[12] John 6:18
[13] Mark 6:48
[14] Romans 8:28; James 1:2-4
[15] Matthew 14:26-29
[16] Matthew 14:30-32
[17] Matthew 14:33