Oh you of little faith,” Jesus said to Peter in Matthew 14:31.

I get it. The guy was sinking. His succumbing to the waves, we’re explicitly told, is because he doubted. So yes, his failing faith left him flailing in the moment.

But before that?

Peter got out of the boat.

“Jesus,” I want to challenge, “doesn’t that count for something?”

It would make sense in my mind if Jesus called Peter’s faith “promising.” I’d like for Peter to have gotten some credit, a pat on the back, and another shot. Or at least the encouragement, “solid starter.”

But this isn’t the only time in Scripture God highlights the importance of finishing in the faith.

Thankfully, His Word offers all we need for godly living. With this sort of (sometimes frustrating) correction, He also offers helpful instruction on how to have lasting faith.

1. Don’t finish in the flesh- stick with the Spirit

“After beginning by means of the Spirit, are you now trying to finish by means of the flesh?” –Gal 3:3

After posing this question, Paul goes on to talk about the means of the Spirit. He highlights that through the Spirit:

• We are freed from trying to keep the law to please God so we can please Him by believing Him
• We trust God and act according to His promises
• We live as children of God, clothed in Christ
• We don’t have to justify ourselves, Christ is our righteousness

2. Ask God for help in unbelief

“I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief!” –Mark 9:24

Instead of crying out that he was drowning and needed saving, Peter could have said “help me overcome my unbelief!” We have that option, too.

Like the honest Dad trying to do right by his suffering son, sometimes persevering in faith means admitting our lack thereof. God is faithful to help!

3. Keep your eyes on the real prize- Jesus

“Press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ.” –Ph 3:14

Why do we have faith? Jesus. Who do we have faith in? Jesus. What does our faith believe? Jesus- crucified, risen, and eagerly awaiting us in eternity. He is our portion and our prize- plus our strength for persevering in the faith.

Faith lasts when we know that it is finished, and rely on Christ to help us persevere!

(A version of this post was previously published here)

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