This Sunday my congregation will be learning a new song called “Oceans (Where Feet May Fail)“. You can listen to a recording of it here.
Why did I select this song? To be honest, I wasn’t even sure I liked the song the first time I heard it. The singing style of the soloist is not my preference, but the words really settled into my heart.
You call me out upon the waters
The great unknown where feet may fail
In Matthew 14:22-33 we have the story of Jesus walking on the water. Now Jesus, the Son of God, walking on water is really quite amazing, but then again, He is God in the flesh. We expect Him to do miracles. What really sets this story apart is when Peter asks if he can join Jesus for a nice stroll on the stormy seas.
Your grace abounds in deepest waters
Your sovereign hand will be my guide
Where feet may fail and fear surrounds me
This is where the song becomes powerful. The writer acknowledges the fear of walking where you know your feet may fail. Yet, just like Peter, we are encouraged to respond to God’s call and walk out on the waters where grace abounds.
How can I walk on water like Peter?
- Respond to the call. Don’t always look for the answer to every question before you step out. When God calls, we need to move.
Spirit lead me where my trust is without borders
Let me walk upon the waters
Wherever You would call me
- Seek the call. Peter went one step further. He actually invited himself out upon the waters. He did not go until Jesus said “come”, but he was ready. Are you searching for an opportunity to step out in faith where your own ability is not enough and you will fail if God does not step in?
Take me deeper than my feet could ever wander
And my faith will be made stronger
In the presence of my Savior
- Trust in His embrace. Even when fear surrounds us and we stumble, God is there! When we step out in faith we often wonder if we are really doing what God wants or is it just our own idea. Our eyes are drawn from Jesus to our own fears, failures and shortcomings. God is able to handle even your mistakes. If you think God is calling you to do something, walk on the water. God loves you enough to catch you even if you stumble or were wrong about the call.
When oceans rise
My soul will rest in Your embrace
For I am Yours and You are mine
Question: What are you doing that will take you into waters where feet may fail?
by Jerry Wyrick, President of Worship Arts Conservatory