"If the LORD delights in a person's way, He makes their steps firm; though they stumble, they will not fall, for the LORD upholds them with His hand." (Psalm 37:23,24)

The Grand Narrative: “Walking on Waves? (John 6:16-21; Matt. 14:22-33)

“Walking on Waves? (John 6:16-21; Matt. 14:22-33)

Published 27 Jan. 2026

Scroll down for “Lessons Learned…”

Designed for Personal Bible Study or for Bible Teaching

💥 Lessons Learned – Sins / Failures

  • 1️⃣ Fear can distort reality and misread God’s presence as danger (Mt 14:26).
  • 2️⃣ Doubt grows when we shift our focus from Jesus to circumstances (Mt 14:30).
  • 3️⃣ Little faith often appears after God has already shown great power (Mt 14:31).
  • 4️⃣ Panic-driven conclusions can spread quickly within a group (Mt 14:26–27).
  • 5️⃣ A familiar story can become “old” if we stop taking Jesus seriously (Jn 6:21).

🏆 Lessons Learned – Successes / Spiritual Growth

  • 1️⃣ Jesus comes toward His people in their distress, not away from them (Mt 14:25).
  • 2️⃣ Faith acts on Jesus’ word even when conditions remain threatening (Mt 14:29).
  • 3️⃣ Even faltering faith can cry out to Jesus and be rescued immediately (Mt 14:30–31).
  • 4️⃣ Worship is the proper response when we recognize who Jesus truly is (Mt 14:33).
  • 5️⃣ Jesus’ authority extends over nature, time, and outcomes (Jn 6:21).

🧭 Lessons Learned – Leadership Dynamics

  • 1️⃣ Jesus leads by interceding first, then acting decisively when help is needed (Mt 14:23–25).
  • 2️⃣ Strong leaders speak clarity into chaos: “It is I. Don’t be afraid.” (Mt 14:27).
  • 3️⃣ Courage is contagious—Peter’s step happens in front of the whole team (Mt 14:28–29).
  • 4️⃣ Correction can be both firm and restoring: Jesus questions doubt while saving Peter (Mt 14:31).
  • 5️⃣ A team’s culture changes when they collectively confess truth and worship (Mt 14:33).