Walking on Water: Finding Faith When Fear Feels Strong

Fear whispers worst-case scenarios. It clings to control.

It convinces us to stay in the boat—even when Jesus is calling us out.

Scripture tells us:

“Then Peter got down out of the boat, walked on the water, and came toward Jesus. But when he saw the wind, he was afraid, and beginning to sink, cried out, ‘Lord, save me!’” — Matthew 14:29–30 (ESV)

Peter wanted to trust. He took bold steps toward Jesus, defying logic, fear, and even gravity. But when the wind picked up, his focus shifted. Faith gave way to fear—and he started to sink.

Sound familiar?

When Faith Gives Way to Fear

Maybe it’s the moment you finally take a risk.
Set a boundary.
Say yes to healing.
Step toward Jesus in the unknown.

And suddenly, the “what ifs” start swirling. The fear of failure creeps back in. And you wonder if you ever really had what it takes.

But here’s the truth:

“But Jesus immediately said to them: ‘Take courage! It is I. Don’t be afraid.’” — Matthew 14:27 (NIV)

Jesus Meets Us in Our Fear

Jesus didn’t shame Peter for sinking.
He reached for him.

Walking-on-water faith was never about walking perfectly.
It was always about walking toward Him.

Jesus doesn’t require fearless faith—just faith that’s willing to step forward. Even when it’s wobbly. Even when it’s scared. Even when it’s uncertain, trusting that He will catch you.

And the best part? Even if you sink, you’re still safe in His hands.

A Prayer for Courage in Fear

Jesus, fear feels loud and real sometimes. But so do You. Give me courage to step out of my comfort zone and keep my eyes on You. When I waver, when I sink, remind me You’re not far off. You’re already reaching for me. Amen.

Key Takeaway

Faith isn’t about having it all together.
It’s about stepping toward Jesus—even when the wind is strong.

When you feel fear creeping in, remember: He is near, He is reaching, and He will not let you go.

Meet the Author
Rasha Gardner

Rasha is a licensed mental health therapist and mama who knows that clinging to Jesus in the thick of motherhood is essential. She lives in the Midwest with her husband and children and does her best to soak up the sweet, fleeting days with her little ones.

She writes at @heldinthehard, a space (think online journal!) where gospel truth meets real life—motherhood, mental health, and all the in-betweens. You can also find her sharing mental health tips, hope, and encouragement over on her professional Instagram at @rashagardnercounseling.