Walking on Water
Peter's Leap of Faith
The Story
Matthew 14:22-33
The disciples were crossing the Sea of Galilee in a boat when a terrible storm blew in. The waves crashed and the boat rocked. They were terrified!
Then they saw something impossible — a figure walking toward them ON TOP OF THE WATER. 'It's a ghost!' they screamed. But Jesus called out, 'Don't be afraid! It's me!'
Peter, the bold disciple, called out, 'Lord, if it's really you, tell me to come to you on the water!' Jesus said, 'Come!' And Peter actually got out of the boat and started walking on water toward Jesus!
But when Peter saw the big waves, he got scared and started to sink. 'Save me, Lord!' he cried. Jesus grabbed him immediately and said, 'Why did you doubt?' When they got back in the boat, the storm stopped and everyone worshipped Jesus.
What Can We Learn?
Keep Your Eyes on Jesus
Peter was fine while he looked at Jesus. He only sank when he looked at the waves. Look to Jesus, not your problems!
Get Out of the Boat
Peter is the only person besides Jesus to walk on water! Sometimes faith means stepping out.
Jesus Catches You When You Fall
The moment Peter cried out, Jesus grabbed him. He will always catch you too.
Doubt Doesn't Disqualify You
Peter doubted but Jesus still caught him and used him mightily. It's okay to say 'Lord, help my unbelief!'.
Memory Verse
“I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength.”
Philippians 4:13 (NLT)
Character Spotlight
Peter
Bold Disciple
Fun Facts:
- ★One of Jesus' closest friends
- ★Walked on water — something no other person did!
- ★Later became a key leader of the early church
Lessons from Peter:
- ✓Bold faith sometimes means taking scary steps
Prayer Time
Read this prayer out loud!
Dear Jesus, when the storms of life scare me and I start to sink, help me to keep my eyes on You. Thank You that You always reach out to catch me! Amen.
Family Discussion
Talk about these questions together!
Why did Peter start sinking? What does that teach us?
What 'storm' or fear are you facing right now that you need Jesus to help with?
What does it mean to 'get out of the boat' in your own life?
📚 For older kids & teensFun Activities
Activities to reinforce the story!
Color Peter on the Water
Color the amazing miracle scene!
Walk to Jesus
Help Peter walk through the waves to Jesus!
Draw Your Storm
Draw a challenge you are facing and ask Jesus to help.
