JANUARY 17 - Guard Your Heart, Step in Faith
3-Year-Bible Reading: Proverbs 4:20–23; Matthew 14
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“Keep your heart with all vigilance, for from it flow the springs of life.” — Proverbs 4:23
“But immediately Jesus spoke to them, saying, ‘Take heart; it is I. Do not be afraid.’ Peter answered him, ‘Lord, if it is you, command me to come to you on the water.’ He said, ‘Come.’ So Peter got out of the boat and walked on the water and came to Jesus.” — Matthew 14:27–29
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We all have moments when life feels like a storm—confusing, overwhelming, and just plain scary. Whether it’s a tough day at school, drama with friends, or fears about the future, it’s easy to let anxiety take over. In Matthew 14, Peter stepped out of the boat into a literal storm, simply because Jesus told him to come. It took major faith. But before that moment, his heart had to be in the right place—focused on Jesus.
That’s where Proverbs 4 comes in. Guarding your heart doesn’t just mean avoiding bad stuff—it means choosing to focus on what matters most. When your heart is anchored in Jesus, you can step out even when the waves are high.
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THINK ABOUT IT
1. Guard Your Heart: What are you letting into your heart—through your music, your shows, your social media? Proverbs says everything flows from the heart. What kind of life do you want flowing from yours?
2. Eyes on Jesus: Peter only started sinking when he looked at the wind instead of Jesus. Where are your eyes when life gets stressful—on the problem or on the One who has power over it?
3. Step Out: What is one way you can trust Jesus today, even if it feels a little risky? Maybe it's standing up for someone, sharing your faith, or choosing peace over drama.
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BOTTOM LINE
When your heart is guarded by God’s truth, and your eyes are fixed on Jesus, you’ll find the courage to step out of the boat—even in the middle of life’s storms.
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PRAYER
Heavenly Father, thank You for being with me in every storm. Help me guard my heart and keep my focus on You, even when everything around me feels uncertain. Give me the courage to step out in faith, trusting that You’ve got me. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
