READ TOGETHER:
John 6:16-24
DISCUSS:
- How do you respond to difficultly and hardships? What do you do when the storms of life come upon you?
- What are some tests of faith and thinking you have faced? How have these experiences helped you grow in the faith?
- How did the disciples react when they sawJesus walking on water? If real faith is shown when the storms come, how should that affect our fear?
- In John 6:20 Jesus says, “It is I, do not be afraid.” In the original language the phrase is “ego eimi” or “I Am.” What comfort, encouragement, and hope isthere in knowing “I Am” is with you in the storm? and has power over the storm?
- What miraculous event took place once Jesus entered the boat? How has Jesus calmed the storm for you in the past? From what do you think you need God to rescue you today?
- Our confidence is in Christ and not in situations. So, what can you do to encourage others in your life and church to not be afraid, but to put one's confidence and trust in the Lord?
PRAY:
- Pray that you will depend on God the next time a threatening situation confronts you?
- Pray for The Ridge and our community for increased trust and belief in God, especially in times of trials and testing.
PRACTICE (on your own):
Below are two examples of how men from the Bible have approached storms and how we can learn from them:
- Disobey God’s Will: Example - Jonah. When we disobey the will of God, we move ourselves outside the will of God and into a storm. Repentance brings us back into peace with God.
- Obey God’s Will: Example – Moses. After delivering God’s people from the Egypt, Moses met one challenge after another. When we obey God, there will always be blessings and reward, but it doesn't mean there won’t be storms and challenges along the way.
- Recognize God: Recognizing the power and presence of God in the middle of the storm is the key that brings peace to our hearts.
DIVE DEEPER:
- Going through a storm? Study the following verses to find peace in the midst of the storm: Philippians 4:6-7; Isaiah 43:2; Matthew 8:24-27; Isaiah 26:3; Job 37:5-7, 13; John 14:27; Isaiah 41:10; Psalm 34:4; 1 Peter 5:7
Thanks for listening in to The Ridge's Sunday Audio podcast! Although we hope you are greatly blessed by listening to this message, we also believe it's important to belong to a local body of believers. If you live in our area, we would love to worship with you on Sunday mornings at 8:00a, 9:30a, or 11:15a!
