When Peter stepped out of the boat, it wasn’t calm waters — it was a storm. Yet Jesus was there, waiting. In this Walk On Water series episode, Bethany Joy unpacks the courage it takes to take the first step, why letting others struggle is part of real leadership, and how trust grows in the tension between safety and faith.

Whether you’re stepping into your own unknown or watching someone you love take their leap, this episode will help you slow down, trust God, and move forward.

Get your FREE Interactive Appreciation Workbook to help you walk with God in every season: ThriveWithBethany.com

In Matthew 14:22-33, Peter does something wild — he steps out of the boat and onto the water toward Jesus. But before that step, there’s a decision, a moment where both feet aren’t on solid ground.

This episode explores:

• Why the first step is always the scariest

• How to lead without rescuing

• Why letting others “struggle” can actually be an act of love

• And how to recognize when you are in a Peter moment

We’ll talk about the butterfly struggle analogy, slowing down in the storm, and learning to trust Jesus’ presence even when the situation makes no sense.

0:00 - Welcome and making sure you’re in the right place
1:15 - The Walk On Water moment we often overlook
2:09 - Imagining Peter’s first step in the storm
4:36 - Jesus doesn’t always “come to the boat”
5:02 - Leadership and letting others take the hard step
5:45 - The butterfly struggle analogy
6:55 - Why you can’t “rescue” people out of growth
8:18 - Jesus was there but let Peter step out
9:17 - Choosing the less secure ground to be with Jesus
10:10 - Slowing down instead of rushing through
10:45 - Are you in a Peter moment right now?
11:18 - Leading others without taking away their growth
12:09 - You’re not alone in your step of faith
12:29 - Free Interactive Appreciation Workbook invitation

3 Takeaways:

1. The first step toward Jesus is often the hardest — but you’re never alone in taking it.

2. Real leadership sometimes means not stepping in to rescue, so others can grow.

3. Faith grows in the in-between moments where safety meets surrender.

Download your FREE Interactive Appreciation Workbook and start building spiritual and relational grounding for your next step of faith: ThriveWithBethany.com