What Jesus Did! 'Our Purpose Is His Praise' — Matthew 14:32-33

Wednesday, July 16, 2025

When [Jesus and Peter] climbed back into the boat [after Jesus rescued Peter from sinking], the wind stopped. Then the disciples worshiped [Jesus]. "You really are the Son of God!" they exclaimed.
— Matthew 14:32-33 NLT

Key Thought

The ultimate goal of experiencing Jesus' presence and power in our lives is to lead to our praise of him for who he is and what he has done. Rather than simply an adrenaline fix, an emotional wave, or an incredible experience, our service to Jesus and our recognition that his presence and power make us better than we are on our own should lead us to praise him and confess him as God's Son and our Savior.

Today's Prayer

Holy Father and eternal King, thank you for your plan to send Jesus, you Son. I believe that Jesus Christ is your Son who came in the flesh and redeemed me from my sin by being my atoning sacrifice. I love you for loving me so sacrificially and cleansing me and making me pure. I praise you for Jesus, and I praise Jesus because he is worthy of all praise, honor, and obedience. In the name of Jesus my Savior, I offer my eternal thanks and praise. Amen.

Related Scripture Readings

  • John 20:30-31
  • Romans 1:2-4
  • 1 John 5:13-15

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Illustration

Illustration of Matthew 14:32-33 NLT — When [Jesus and Peter] climbed back into the boat [after Jesus rescued Peter from sinking], the wind stopped. Then the disciples worshiped [Jesus]. "You really are the Son of God!" they exclaimed.

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About This Devotional

What Jesus Did! is a series of one-year devotional guides through each gospel, using one short scripture passage each day and following the Gospel in sequential order. Each devotional consists of a scripture passage and a reflection and a prayer which open up the day's scripture and show how it challenges you to live for Jesus.

What Jesus Did! is written by Phil Ware and is available in book form.

Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007, 2013, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.

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