02_What_Fears_We_Hold.pdf

of the Sermon:**

Today’s sermon, “What Fears We Hold: Awe & Wonder,” explored how we respond to the storms of life—both literal and metaphorical. Using the imagery of a favorite chair and the story of Jesus calming the storm, we considered our tendency to let fear and anxiety disrupt our rest and trust in God. The message challenged us to examine where our awe truly lies: in the chaos of the world, or in the power and presence of God. Drawing from Psalm 46 and the Gospel accounts, we were invited to move from striving and accusation to stillness and faith, learning to rest in God’s sovereignty even when circumstances are uncertain or threatening. Ultimately, the call was to cultivate a faith that is fully convinced of God’s promises, to be still in His presence, and to set an example of trust and courage for others.

**K

Key Takeaways

• 1. Rest Is a Choice in the Midst of Chaos: True rest is not the absence of storms, but the decision to remain still and trust in God’s presence even as the winds rage. Our anxiety does not dispel the storm; it only creates new turmoil within us. Choosing to rest in God is an act of faith that acknowledges His sovereignty over every circumstance, both real and imagined.
• 2. The Fear of the Lord Reorders Our Other Fears: The storms of life—external dangers, internal anxieties, unmet expectations—can easily become the focus of our awe and fear. Yet, Scripture calls us to let the fear of the Lord, a posture of awe and wonder at His power and mercy, be greater than our fear of what may come. This reordering of fear leads us to peace, even when the world is in turmoil.
• 3. Faith Is More Than Mental Agreement: When Jesus asked, “Where is your faith?” He was not questioning the disciples’ knowledge, but their full conviction and trust in Him. Faith that endures storms is rooted in a deep, lived-out confidence in God’s promises and character. It is a faith that submits our earthly fears to the greater reality of God’s faithfulness and power.
• 4. Stillness Is an Act of Courage and Submission: “Be still and know that I am God” is not a passive suggestion, but a courageous act of surrender in the face of chaos. It means ceasing our striving, accusations, and attempts to control, and instead submitting to God’s authority. This stillness is a testimony to our trust in God’s ability to bring calm and order, even when we cannot see the outcome.
• 5. Our Example in the Storms Matters: How we respond to life’s storms sets an example for others—whether we are found pacing in anxiety or resting in faith. We are called to follow Jesus through the unknown, to rest as He rests, and to trust as He trusts. In doing so, we invite others not to elevate us, but to see what it means to follow Christ with full conviction, pointing always to His glory and presence, even to the end of the age.

1. In Psalm 46, what images are used to describe both the chaos of the world and God’s protection?
2. According to Luke 8:22-25, what was Jesus doing during the storm, and how did the disciples react?
3. In Romans 4:20-21, how is Abraham’s faith described?
4. From the sermon, what are some examples of “storms” that people face, both externally and internally?

1. Why do you think the disciples, some of whom were experienced fishermen, were so afraid during the storm even though Jesus was with them?
2. The sermon says, “Rest is a choice in the midst of chaos.” What does it mean to choose rest when everything around you feels out of control?
3. The phrase “fear of the Lord” is used in the sermon and in Scripture. How is this kind of fear different from the fear the disciples felt in the boat?
4. When Jesus asks, “Where is your faith?” what is He really challenging in the hearts of His followers?

1. Think about a recent “storm” in your life—maybe a stressful situation, a conflict, or a time of uncertainty. How did you respond? Did you find yourself pacing in anxiety or able to rest in God’s presence? What would it look like to choose rest next time?
2. The sermon talks about letting the “fear of the Lord” reorder our other fears. Is there a specific fear or anxiety in your life right now that tends to take over your thoughts? What would it look like to submit that fear to God’s authority this week?
3. “Be still and know that I am God” is described as an act of courage and surrender. What is one area of your life where you are still striving or trying to control the outcome? How could you practice stillness and surrender in that area?
4. The disciples accused Jesus of not caring during the storm. Have you ever felt like God was distant or uncaring in a hard season? How did you process those feelings, and what helped you move forward in faith?
5. The sermon says our example in the storms matters for others watching us. Who in your life might be watching how you handle stress or difficulty? How could your response point them toward Jesus?
6. Abraham was “fully convinced” that God would keep His promises. Is there a promise of God that you struggle to believe right now? What would help you grow in full conviction?
7. The message challenges us to move from striving and accusation to stillness and faith. What is one practical step you can take this week to stop striving and rest in God’s sovereignty, even if your circumstances don’t change?