Michael Blackstone encourages the students to have resilient faith. He explains that they will be bent, twisted, and pulled in their faith. He charges them to know seven ways God works on and through faith in difficult circumstances.
Scripture Text
Matthew 14:22-33
Main Points or Ideas
- Know the Purpose of God - Jesus constrained (compelled) His disciples to get into the boat, and He knew exactly what storm He was sending them into. They were exactly where they were supposed to be. God has a purpose for every trial and fear that comes into our lives—it is not misguided but targeted for an exact time and place.
- Know That God Allows Problems - The wind was contrary (literally "opposite" or "against"), and the disciples were rowing but not making progress. Storms will come even when we are walking in obedience, and God allows these challenges for the trying of our faith. Our progress is not measured by apparent advance but by the hearty intent with which we persevere.
- Know the Presence of God - In the fourth watch of the night, Jesus came to them walking on the sea and said, "Be of good cheer; it is I; be not afraid." His presence makes all the difference. Whatever the situation, He is there.
- Know That God Wants You to Proceed - Peter asked, "Lord, if it be thou, bid me come," and Jesus said, "Come." Peter was not a failure in this story—he got out of the boat when eleven others stayed in, he actually walked on water, and when he sank, he cried out to the only one who could help him. Peter asked God first, showing the discernment needed when facing fear.
- Know the Protection of God - When Peter began to sink and cried out, "Lord, save me," immediately Jesus stretched forth His hand and caught him. The word "caught" means to seize or take hold of—like an unbreakable grip pulling someone from a cliff. God is there to catch and protect us immediately when we call on Him.
- Know the Power of God - When Jesus and Peter got back into the boat, the wind ceased (literally "tired" or "relaxed"). The sea was no match for the Son of God. We serve the same powerful God who is still able to do exceedingly abundantly above all we could ask or think.
- Know the Person - When they got into the ship, those in the boat came and worshiped Him, saying, "Of a truth thou art the Son of God." If we know Him, we have no reason to fear—we only have reason to worship.
Conclusion
Fear is the enemy of resilient faith. The five words to remember are: Get out of the boat. Surrender, not safety, is the end of our calling as believers. God wants us to step out in faith and trust Him in the midst of the storms.
