One of the clearest biblical examples of how distractions can hinder spiritual focus is found in the account of Peter walking on the water. In Matthew 14:28-31, Peter, in an act of faith, stepped out of the boat at the command of Jesus and began walking on the water. As long as his eyes remained fixed on Jesus, he was sustained by the power of God, doing what was humanly impossible. However, when he allowed himself to be distracted by the wind and the waves, fear entered his heart, and he began to sink. The Scripture says, “But when he saw the wind boisterous, he was afraid; and beginning to sink, he cried, saying, Lord, save me. And immediately Jesus stretched forth his hand, and caught him, and said unto him, O thou of little faith, wherefore didst thou doubt?” (Matthew 14:30-31).
This moment reveals the difference between spiritual maturity and spiritual immaturity. The spiritually mature are able to maintain focus on Jesus, regardless of the storms around them, while those who lack maturity are easily swayed by external circumstances. Peter’s initial step onto the water was an act of faith, but his inability to sustain that faith in the midst of distractions caused him to falter. His eyes shifted from Jesus to the raging sea, and in doing so, he allowed fear to override his faith.
Jesus’ response to Peter was not merely a rebuke but a lesson: “O thou of little faith, wherefore didst thou doubt?” The question itself reveals the heart of the issue—Peter doubted. He allowed the external storm to dictate his internal faith, rather than letting his faith dictate his response to the storm. This is what separates the spiritually mature from the immature. Those who are mature in faith do not allow circumstances to shake their confidence in God. They understand that no matter how fierce the wind or how high the waves, Jesus remains the same, and His power is not diminished by the storm.
Peter’s experience serves as both a warning and an encouragement. It warns that distractions can cause even the strongest believers to falter if they shift their focus from Christ. But it also encourages, because even in the moment of failure, Peter did the right thing—he cried out to Jesus, “Lord, save me!” The spiritually mature do not rely on their own strength but recognize their need for God’s intervention. And just as Jesus immediately reached out and saved Peter, He does the same for all who call upon Him in faith.
This account teaches that spiritual focus is not merely about beginning well but about continuing steadfastly. It is about walking by faith and not by sight, refusing to let distractions dictate our steps. Had Peter kept his eyes on Jesus, he would have continued walking on the water, demonstrating the power of unwavering faith. In the same way, believers today must learn to fix their eyes on Jesus, the author and finisher of their faith, knowing that as long as their focus remains on Him, they will not be overcome by the storms of life.
Selah Moment with Prophetess Dr. Althea Winifred
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