Finding Authority and Growth in Life's Storms
Summary
In today's gathering, we explored the profound narrative of Jesus calming the storm in Mark 4:35-41, a story that reveals the depth of Jesus' authority and the lessons He imparts through life's storms. As we journey through life, we often encounter storms—challenges and trials that test our faith and resilience. These storms are not merely obstacles but opportunities for growth and revelation. Jesus used the storm on the Sea of Galilee to teach His disciples about His divine authority over nature and the spiritual realm. This was not just a natural storm but a spiritual attack, a reminder that our battles are not only physical but also spiritual.
The story of my overnight fishing trip serves as a metaphor for these life storms. Just as I learned valuable lessons through the discomfort of seasickness, we learn and grow through our trials. Jesus allows us to face storms because there are lessons and revelations that can only be grasped in the midst of adversity. Knowledge becomes wisdom when applied, and wisdom is often forged in the crucible of life's challenges.
Jesus' authority over the storm was a demonstration of His power over both the natural and spiritual realms. The disciples needed to see this to understand fully who Jesus was. Similarly, we must recognize that the storms we face are not just random occurrences but can be spiritual battles that require discernment and faith. Jesus has given us authority, and we must not sleep on it. We are called to exercise this authority, to push back against the darkness, and to walk in the confidence of our calling.
As we move forward, let us remember the promises God has made to us. We must hold onto these promises, especially when the storms rage. Writing down these promises can serve as a reminder and anchor for our souls. Our journey is not just about us; it's about the impact we have on others. The breakthrough on the other side of our storm is not just for us but for those we are called to bless and serve.
Key Takeaways:
- Life's storms are opportunities for growth and revelation. Jesus uses these moments to teach us lessons that can only be learned in adversity. Knowledge becomes wisdom when applied, and wisdom is often forged in the crucible of life's challenges. [10:00]
- Jesus demonstrated His authority over both the natural and spiritual realms. The storm was not just a natural occurrence but a spiritual attack. We must recognize that our battles are not only physical but also spiritual, requiring discernment and faith. [13:08]
- We have been given authority by Jesus, and we must not sleep on it. We are called to exercise this authority, to push back against the darkness, and to walk in the confidence of our calling. [31:01]
- Holding onto God's promises is crucial, especially when storms rage. Writing down these promises can serve as a reminder and anchor for our souls. Our journey is not just about us; it's about the impact we have on others. [21:42]
- The breakthrough on the other side of our storm is not just for us but for those we are called to bless and serve. Our journey is about obedience and faithfulness, impacting others with the testimony of our trials. [33:18]
Youtube Chapters:
[0:00] - Welcome
[02:06] - Introduction to Mark 4:35-41
[04:40] - Personal Story: The Fishing Trip
[10:00] - Lessons in the Storm
[13:08] - Authority Over Nature and Spirits
[15:54] - The Enemy's Opposition
[19:36] - Remembering God's Promises
[20:16] - The Promise of the Other Side
[21:42] - Anchoring in God's Word
[26:50] - Childlike Faith and Reminders
[28:43] - The Challenge of Following Jesus
[29:51] - Walking in Authority
[31:01] - Stop Sleeping on Your Authority
[32:02] - The Need for Discernment
[33:18] - The Impact of Our Breakthrough
[35:21] - Conclusion and Call to Action
Study Guide
Bible Study Discussion Guide
Bible Reading:
- Mark 4:35-41
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Observation Questions:
1. What was Jesus doing during the storm, and how did the disciples react to it? [02:06]
2. How did Jesus demonstrate His authority over the storm, and what was the disciples' response to His actions? [02:06]
3. What were the two lessons that Jesus intended to teach His disciples through the storm? [10:00]
4. How does the story of the overnight fishing trip serve as a metaphor for life's storms? [04:40]
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Interpretation Questions:
1. Why might Jesus have chosen to sleep during the storm, and what does this suggest about His expectations for the disciples? [31:01]
2. How does the concept of spiritual authority play a role in the story of Jesus calming the storm? [13:08]
3. In what ways does the sermon suggest that life's storms can be both natural and spiritual battles? [13:08]
4. How does the sermon connect the idea of holding onto God's promises with facing life's storms? [21:42]
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Application Questions:
1. Reflect on a recent "storm" in your life. How did you respond, and what might you do differently in light of Jesus' authority over storms? [02:06]
2. The sermon emphasizes the importance of recognizing spiritual battles. How can you develop discernment to identify when you are facing a spiritual attack? [32:02]
3. Jesus has given us authority, yet we often "sleep" on it. What practical steps can you take to exercise this authority in your daily life? [31:01]
4. Consider a promise from God that you are holding onto. How can you remind yourself of this promise during challenging times? [21:42]
5. The sermon suggests that our breakthroughs are not just for us but for others. Who in your life might benefit from your testimony of overcoming a storm? [33:18]
6. How can you actively remind yourself of God's goodness and promises when you face difficulties? What specific actions can you take to anchor your faith? [21:42]
7. Reflect on the idea that the enemy sees more potential in you than you might see in yourself. How does this perspective change the way you view your challenges and opportunities? [15:54]
Devotional
Day 1: Growth Through Life's Storms
Life's storms are not just challenges but opportunities for growth and revelation. As we navigate through life's adversities, we are often faced with situations that test our faith and resilience. These storms, much like the one Jesus calmed on the Sea of Galilee, are not merely obstacles but are moments where profound lessons and revelations can be uncovered. Jesus used the storm to teach His disciples about His divine authority, showing them that their battles were not only physical but also spiritual. In the same way, the trials we face are opportunities for us to learn and grow, transforming knowledge into wisdom through the crucible of life's challenges. [10:00]
"Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing." (James 1:2-4, ESV)
Reflection: Think of a recent challenge you faced. How did it help you grow, and what wisdom did you gain from it that you can apply today?
Day 2: Recognizing Spiritual Battles
Jesus demonstrated His authority over both the natural and spiritual realms, reminding us that our battles are not only physical but also spiritual. The storm on the Sea of Galilee was not just a natural occurrence but a spiritual attack, highlighting the need for discernment and faith. As believers, we must recognize that the challenges we face may have deeper spiritual implications. By understanding this, we can approach our battles with a mindset that seeks spiritual insight and strength, trusting in Jesus' authority to guide us through. [13:08]
"For though we walk in the flesh, we are not waging war according to the flesh. For the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh but have divine power to destroy strongholds." (2 Corinthians 10:3-4, ESV)
Reflection: Identify a current struggle in your life. How might this be a spiritual battle, and what steps can you take to seek God's guidance and strength in it?
Day 3: Exercising Our God-Given Authority
We have been given authority by Jesus, and it is crucial that we do not neglect it. Just as Jesus calmed the storm, demonstrating His power, we are called to exercise the authority He has entrusted to us. This means actively pushing back against darkness and walking confidently in our calling. By embracing this authority, we can face life's challenges with courage and faith, knowing that we are equipped to overcome them. [31:01]
"Behold, I have given you authority to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy, and nothing shall hurt you." (Luke 10:19, ESV)
Reflection: In what area of your life do you need to exercise the authority given to you by Jesus? What practical steps can you take today to walk in that authority?
Day 4: Anchoring in God's Promises
Holding onto God's promises is essential, especially when storms rage around us. Writing down these promises can serve as a powerful reminder and anchor for our souls. Our journey is not just about personal growth but also about the impact we have on others. By staying grounded in God's Word, we can navigate life's challenges with hope and assurance, knowing that His promises are steadfast and true. [21:42]
"Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for he who promised is faithful." (Hebrews 10:23, ESV)
Reflection: What is one promise from God that you need to hold onto today? Write it down and reflect on how it can anchor you in the midst of your current circumstances.
Day 5: The Impact of Our Breakthrough
The breakthrough on the other side of our storm is not just for us but for those we are called to bless and serve. Our journey through trials is about obedience and faithfulness, impacting others with the testimony of our experiences. By sharing the lessons and victories from our storms, we can encourage and uplift those around us, demonstrating the power of God's work in our lives. [33:18]
"Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God." (2 Corinthians 1:3-4, ESV)
Reflection: Who in your life can benefit from hearing about a breakthrough you have experienced? How can you share your story to encourage and bless them today?
Quotes
Here are the selected quotes from the sermon transcript, each followed by its starting timestamp:
1. "In life, we do go through difficult moments. In life, we do go through what we call storms. In life, we do go through challenges. But here is the truth. There are some things that only Jesus can do in the middle of a storm that he could not do if we were not in that storm. And so oftentimes, Jesus will have to take us through difficult moments and difficult situations because there is a lesson that he is trying to teach you that he could only teach you in the middle of the situation." ([536:41] (28 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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2. "The first thing that Jesus was attempting to teach the disciples was that he has authority over the natural environment. Now, why is this important? This is important because the Jews of that time only believed that Yahweh, meaning the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, had control over the natural elements. So Jesus now displaying that he has control as well over the natural elements was solidifying more of the fact that he was the son of God and he did have the same power that God had given them because they are three in one." ([662:67] (33 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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3. "He didn't want you to cross over because he knows what's on the other side. He knows where your blessing lies after your obedience. He knows what's standing on the shores of the other side. He knows the breakthrough that's going to come if you don't break down in the middle where you're currently at. And he tried to stop you from getting there. Some of you, he did a great job stopping you. Some of you, he put a halt in the situation. Some of you took a few steps back because this is the truth. I said this in week one, the enemy sees more potential in you than you're willing to see in yourself." ([874:45] (28 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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4. "It's like when you say I'm going to start tithing and I'm going to start giving and all of a sudden those bills come out of nowhere and those financial obligations begin to creep up and then you begin to question the validity of God and the truth of his word and then you don't end up walking in that obedience that he's called you to it's like when you say I'm going to start that business or I'm going to write that book or I'm going to start doing the minute you because I think we have this like weird mentality that because Jesus calls us to do something that we think it's going to be absolutely easy well we think that if Jesus is asking us to do something new in our lives or he's telling us to take a certain step in a certain direction we think that it's going to be all candy." ([1050:03] (38 seconds)
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5. "He kind of made them this promise. He said, hey, we're going to go to the other side. When he said we're going to go to the other side, essentially he was saying is I'm going to get you there. I'm not going to tell you the means of how I'm going to do it. I'm not going to tell you what's going to be on the way. Just know that I'm going to get you there in the time that I need to get you there. Isn't it crazy how God never paints the whole picture? He might give you the end in sight, but he doesn't tell you what the process is going to look like on the way." ([1252:13] (26 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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6. "We have to remind ourselves constantly of his goodness we have to remind ourselves of what he said what did he say to you in your darkest hour that you can carry with you in the midnight storm as you are walking to the other side what is that thing that you can remind yourself i'm going to tell you what habakkuk chapter 2 verse 2 through 3 says then the lord answered me and said write the vision and engrave it plainly on clay tablets so that the one who reads it will run for the vision is yet for an appointed future time it hurries towards the goal of fulfillment it will not fail even though it delays wait patiently for it because it will certainly come it will not delay hear what's going on as habakkuk is saying listen when you when you get this vision i need you to write it down and i need you to write it down because what's going to happen is it's going to seem like it's going to take forever to come it's going to seem sometimes that it's been delayed it's going to seem like sometimes you've had some setbacks and because of that you're going to question this but i want you to write it down so it's a point of reference for you so on your darkest days on your most challenging seasons in the darkest of hours you can reference and go back to what he said give you the courage and the authority to continue to walk towards the place that he's called you to walk what did he say he's going to do in your life do you believe it can you hold on to it can you take it to the bank sometimes you got to write that thing down why when we come to church why do we tell you to take notes because you forget 80 of what you hear if you don't write it down i think it was 80 i couldn't remember because i didn't write it down but it's in that vicinity how many of you oh church was cute that's awesome it was great it was on tuesday what was it about i don't faith um jesus um but it's going back to writing it down and referencing it god this is what you said you said you're going to get me to the site god you said you're going to restore my marriage god you said my kids are going to come back and follow you god you said you're going to prosper me god you said this business is going to soar." ([1444:17] (126 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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7. "I mean, what if we had the, what if we learn to have the kind of faith that believes that he's able to do immeasurably more than all that we ask or imagine according to his power that is at work within us? Imagine that. And my final thought is this, as the worship team begins to come up, so I think I'm closing." ([1812:79] (19 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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8. "Maybe he rested to teach them, you have the authority to do what I just did because I've given it to you. So I'm going to chill and sit this one out because I've already empowered you to do this thing. So I need a nap because working with you is all insane. Like, I need to sleep. Like, Peter, you are driving me absolutely wild, my man. Like, I'm going to bed. I'm on melatonin. I'm out." ([1881:70] (26 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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9. "Some of you have been like, God, I need you. God, do this. God, do that. God's like, I'm not going to do a dang thing because I've already empowered you to do it, and if you would activate that very thing that I've already given you to get through this situation, I could wrestle it. You could walk in confidence, and you can walk in victory." ([2086:70] (20 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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10. "He called me to the obedience the fruit was up to him the fruit wasn't my business he just called me if I get to heaven and the only thing he says is well done my good and faithful servant it's not going to be about my accolades it's not going to be about how big my church was it's not going to be about how many services we had it's not going to be about anything but were you obedient to what I called you to do were you obedient in the seasons that you wanted to quit were you faithful because that is what God will use will you be obedient in this next season will you be faithful to what he's called you to two and a half years later three hundred and sixty two people in our first service in the building 19 people saying yes to Jesus multiple people signed up to get baptized 12 people going to pizza with the pastor come on that's a good place to give him praise." ([2277:73] (53 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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