In this world we will have trouble. This is not merely a possibility. It is a statement of fact, (John 16:33). When we face up against our problems, when we give them our full attention; they can seem overwhelming. This is why we must fix our eyes upon Jesus. It doesn’t matter how long we’ve been on this journey. It doesn’t matter how mature we are. We must focus our attentions upon Him. He alone promises that His yoke is easy and His burden light.

Remember Peter? What words would you use to describe him? Courageous? Bold? Stubborn? An “all or nothing guy?” As he swung his legs over the side of the boat and rested his feet upon the water his eyes were fixed upon Jesus.

In this place there was no raging sea. There was no impossible. There was only Jesus beckoning. In the moments that followed, Peter did the impossible. He stood and walked on water. What happened when he examined his surroundings? He saw that the wind and the waves (problems) were fierce and he became afraid.

I can think of no greater example to illustrate this point. Of course when I look in the mirror and remember my own experiences it becomes abundantly clear. When my eyes have been fixed on Jesus, there was no trial that could derail me. I saw everything through the filter of His greatness.

Impossible just didn’t fit into my vocabulary. When my eyes have drifted I have been overtaken. I have gone down for the count. It is only when, like Peter, I have cried, “Lord help me!” that I have escaped these abysmal places of darkness.

Sure, we can place the “God is my co-pilot” sticker on our bumpers and try to navigate life to the best of our abilities but this mindset leads to heartache and failure. Jesus is the pilot of this plane. He alone can safely steer us home. Where are the eyes of your heart focused?

~ Mitch Salmon

Mitch Salmon is the founder of Fisher of Men Productions and a follower of Jesus Christ and proclaimer of the Good News – The Gospel of Christ Jesus!