Stepping Out in Faith: Embracing Life's Storms
Summary
### Summary
Good morning, everyone. Today, we delved into Matthew 14, focusing on the story of Jesus walking on water and Peter's subsequent attempt to do the same. This narrative is a powerful illustration of living a life of faith. Jesus commands His disciples to cross the Sea of Galilee, knowing a storm awaits them. This journey symbolizes our life's journey, filled with storms and uncertainties. Yet, Jesus assures us that He will see us through to the other side.
We explored five key elements in this story: the call, fear, assurance, decision, and a changed life. God calls us to step out in faith, often into situations that are beyond our comfort zones. This call can be frightening, but God provides assurance through His presence and His Word. We then face a decision: to stay in our comfort zones or to step out in faith. When we choose faith, our lives are transformed.
Jesus made the disciples get into the boat, knowing the storm was coming. This teaches us that God finishes what He starts. Despite the storm, the boat will reach the other side because God has said so. Jesus, while praying on the mountain, intercedes for us, just as He did for the disciples. This intercession is a powerful reminder that we are never alone in our struggles.
Peter's experience of walking on water, sinking, and being saved by Jesus' touch illustrates the miraculous power of faith and the transformative touch of God. When we step out in faith, miracles can happen, and we experience Jesus in profound ways. This leads us to worship, as Peter did, recognizing Jesus as the Son of God.
### Key Takeaways
1. The Call to Faith: God calls us to step out of our comfort zones and into a life of faith. This call often involves doing things that seem impossible or frightening. Yet, it is through these challenges that we grow and experience God's power in our lives. Trusting in God's call means believing that He has a purpose and a plan for us, even when we cannot see the outcome. [04:52]
2. Facing Fear with Assurance: Fear is a natural response to stepping out in faith, but God provides assurance through His presence and His Word. Jesus' words, "Take heart; it is I. Do not be afraid," remind us that He is with us in every storm. This assurance allows us to move forward despite our fears, knowing that God is in control. [24:08]
3. The Power of Decision: Every call to faith requires a decision. We can choose to stay in our comfort zones or step out in faith. Peter's decision to get out of the boat and walk towards Jesus exemplifies the courage it takes to follow God's call. This decision leads to a transformed life, as we experience God's power and presence in new ways. [06:20]
4. Experiencing Jesus' Touch: When we step out in faith, we experience the touch of Jesus in our lives. Peter's experience of being saved by Jesus' hand illustrates the profound impact of God's touch. This touch changes us, reassures us, and strengthens our faith, making us never the same again. [32:56]
5. Worship Through Experience: Experiencing God's power and presence leads us to worship. Peter's worship was deeper and more profound because he had experienced a miracle firsthand. Our worship becomes more meaningful when we have personal encounters with God's power and grace, leading us to a deeper recognition of who He is. [37:46]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[01:52] - Introduction to Matthew 14
[03:28] - Jesus Walks on Water
[04:52] - The Call to Faith
[06:20] - The Decision to Step Out
[07:43] - Jesus Made the Disciples Get in the Boat
[09:13] - Life's Journey and Storms
[10:42] - God Finishes What He Starts
[12:07] - Trusting God Through the Storm
[13:24] - Jesus' Intercession
[16:07] - Jesus Praying for Us
[17:46] - The Holy Spirit's Intercession
[19:12] - The Importance of Prayer
[20:28] - Disciples in the Storm
[21:49] - Facing Fear
[23:00] - Jesus Shows Up
[24:08] - Jesus' Assurance
[25:23] - Peter's Impossible Request
[26:06] - Stepping Out in Faith
[27:25] - Miracles Happen
[28:02] - Personal Testimony
[30:17] - Experiencing God's Touch
[32:56] - The Transformative Touch of Jesus
[33:40] - Jesus is Enough
[34:13] - A Touch of the Master's Hand
[37:13] - Falling into Jesus' Arms
[37:46] - Worship Through Experience
[38:49] - Conclusion and Call to Action
[42:42] - Invitation and Closing
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
1. Matthew 14:22-33 - Jesus Walks on Water
2. Psalm 23:1-4 - The Lord is My Shepherd
3. Proverbs 3:5-6 - Trust in the Lord with All Your Heart
#### Observation Questions
1. What did Jesus command His disciples to do at the beginning of the story in Matthew 14:22? How did they respond? ([07:43])
2. Describe the conditions the disciples faced while crossing the Sea of Galilee. What was their reaction when they saw Jesus walking on the water? ([03:28])
3. What was Peter's request to Jesus, and what was Jesus' response? ([25:23])
4. How did Peter's experience change after he took his eyes off Jesus? What did Jesus do in response? ([32:08])
#### Interpretation Questions
1. Why do you think Jesus made the disciples get into the boat knowing a storm was coming? What does this teach us about God's plans and purposes? ([10:42])
2. How does Jesus' assurance, "Take heart; it is I. Do not be afraid," impact the disciples' fear? What does this tell us about facing our own fears? ([24:08])
3. What does Peter's decision to step out of the boat and walk towards Jesus signify about faith and trust? How does this decision lead to a transformed life? ([06:20])
4. In what ways does experiencing Jesus' touch, as Peter did, change a person's life? How does this relate to our personal encounters with God? ([32:56])
#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a time when you felt God calling you to step out of your comfort zone. How did you respond, and what was the outcome? ([04:52])
2. What fears are currently holding you back from fully trusting God? How can you apply Jesus' words, "Do not be afraid," to these fears? ([24:08])
3. Think about a decision you need to make that requires faith. What steps can you take to move forward in faith, similar to Peter stepping out of the boat? ([06:20])
4. Have you ever experienced a moment where you felt the touch of Jesus in your life? How did it change you, and how can you seek more of these experiences? ([32:56])
5. How can you cultivate a deeper sense of worship in your life through personal encounters with God's power and grace? ([37:46])
6. Identify a specific storm or challenge you are currently facing. How can you trust that God will see you through to the other side, as He did with the disciples? ([10:42])
7. What practical steps can you take this week to keep your focus on Jesus, especially when distractions and challenges arise? ([32:08])
Devotional
Day 1: Stepping Out in Faith
God calls us to step out of our comfort zones and into a life of faith. This call often involves doing things that seem impossible or frightening. Yet, it is through these challenges that we grow and experience God's power in our lives. Trusting in God's call means believing that He has a purpose and a plan for us, even when we cannot see the outcome. [04:52]
In Matthew 14, Jesus commands His disciples to cross the Sea of Galilee, knowing a storm awaits them. This journey symbolizes our life's journey, filled with storms and uncertainties. Yet, Jesus assures us that He will see us through to the other side. When Peter saw Jesus walking on water, he asked to join Him. This was a bold step of faith, leaving the safety of the boat to walk on the turbulent waters. Peter's initial success shows the power of faith, but his subsequent fear and sinking remind us of our human frailty and the need to keep our eyes on Jesus.
When we step out in faith, we may face fear and uncertainty, but it is in these moments that we experience God's power and presence in profound ways. Just as Peter was saved by Jesus' touch, we too can be reassured and strengthened by God's presence in our lives. This transformative experience leads us to worship and recognize Jesus as the Son of God.
Isaiah 41:10 (ESV): "Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand."
Reflection: What is one area of your life where you feel God is calling you to step out in faith? How can you take a small step today to trust Him more in that area?
Day 2: Facing Fear with Assurance
Fear is a natural response to stepping out in faith, but God provides assurance through His presence and His Word. Jesus' words, "Take heart; it is I. Do not be afraid," remind us that He is with us in every storm. This assurance allows us to move forward despite our fears, knowing that God is in control. [24:08]
In the midst of the storm, the disciples were terrified when they saw Jesus walking on the water, thinking He was a ghost. But Jesus immediately spoke to them, saying, "Take heart; it is I. Do not be afraid." This powerful statement reassured the disciples of His presence and calmed their fears. Similarly, in our own lives, we may face situations that cause us to fear, but Jesus' presence and His words of assurance can bring us peace.
When we face fear, we can find comfort in knowing that Jesus is with us. His presence provides the assurance we need to move forward, even when the path ahead seems uncertain. By trusting in His words and His promises, we can overcome our fears and experience the peace that comes from knowing that God is in control.
Psalm 46:1-2 (ESV): "God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear though the earth gives way, though the mountains be moved into the heart of the sea."
Reflection: What fears are you currently facing? How can you remind yourself of Jesus' presence and His words of assurance in those moments of fear?
Day 3: The Power of Decision
Every call to faith requires a decision. We can choose to stay in our comfort zones or step out in faith. Peter's decision to get out of the boat and walk towards Jesus exemplifies the courage it takes to follow God's call. This decision leads to a transformed life, as we experience God's power and presence in new ways. [06:20]
Peter's decision to step out of the boat and walk towards Jesus was a pivotal moment in his life. It required courage and trust in Jesus' command. By making the decision to step out in faith, Peter experienced the miraculous power of walking on water. Although he began to sink when he took his eyes off Jesus, the experience transformed his understanding of faith and reliance on Jesus.
Our own decisions to step out in faith can lead to transformative experiences. When we choose to trust God and follow His call, we open ourselves up to experiencing His power and presence in new and profound ways. These decisions, though challenging, can lead to a deeper relationship with God and a greater understanding of His purpose for our lives.
Joshua 1:9 (ESV): "Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go."
Reflection: What decision is God calling you to make today that requires faith and courage? How can you take a step towards making that decision and trusting in God's guidance?
Day 4: Experiencing Jesus' Touch
When we step out in faith, we experience the touch of Jesus in our lives. Peter's experience of being saved by Jesus' hand illustrates the profound impact of God's touch. This touch changes us, reassures us, and strengthens our faith, making us never the same again. [32:56]
As Peter began to sink, he cried out to Jesus for help. Immediately, Jesus reached out His hand and caught him, saving him from drowning. This moment of being touched by Jesus had a profound impact on Peter. It not only saved him physically but also strengthened his faith and deepened his understanding of Jesus' power and love.
In our own lives, we may find ourselves sinking in the midst of challenges and fears. But when we cry out to Jesus, we can experience His touch in our lives. This touch reassures us of His presence, strengthens our faith, and transforms us. It is through these encounters with Jesus that we are changed and our faith is deepened.
Psalm 34:17-18 (ESV): "When the righteous cry for help, the Lord hears and delivers them out of all their troubles. The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit."
Reflection: When have you experienced the touch of Jesus in your life? How did it change you, and how can you seek His touch in your current circumstances?
Day 5: Worship Through Experience
Experiencing God's power and presence leads us to worship. Peter's worship was deeper and more profound because he had experienced a miracle firsthand. Our worship becomes more meaningful when we have personal encounters with God's power and grace, leading us to a deeper recognition of who He is. [37:46]
After Jesus saved Peter from sinking, the disciples worshiped Him, saying, "Truly you are the Son of God." This act of worship was a response to the miraculous experience they had just witnessed. Peter's personal encounter with Jesus' power and grace deepened his worship and recognition of Jesus' divinity.
Our own worship becomes more meaningful when we have personal encounters with God's power and grace. These experiences remind us of His greatness and lead us to a deeper recognition of who He is. As we reflect on the ways God has worked in our lives, our worship becomes a heartfelt response to His love and faithfulness.
Psalm 95:1-3 (ESV): "Oh come, let us sing to the Lord; let us make a joyful noise to the rock of our salvation! Let us come into his presence with thanksgiving; let us make a joyful noise to him with songs of praise! For the Lord is a great God, and a great King above all gods."
Reflection: How has God shown His power and grace in your life? How can you incorporate these experiences into your worship, making it a more meaningful and heartfelt response to Him?
Quotes
### Quotes for outreach
1. "He always, and what God does, He calls ordinary people in order to do extraordinary supernatural things in their life. There's always a call. And He's always, you know, there's a call too. There's fear. And God has a habit. I don't know why this is, of asking people to do things that are a little bit scary out of our comfort zone, kind of beyond us." [04:52] (27 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "You know what? Hey, a lot of the stuff happening around us, it's scary. It's bizarre. It's beyond us. I don't understand. I can't explain it. And the question is, how am I going to get through all of this stuff? How am I going to get through life? And the disciples have no idea what's coming. There's going to be a storm. There's going to be fear. There's going to be all that stuff." [09:13] (19 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "You know what? When we are in need, in our time of struggle, in our time of storms, God is always there. He's with us. His presence is real. His word is true. We can trust it. And His power is power to save and to deliver. He shows up." [24:43] (16 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "You know what? Peter is never the same after this. You know, the fact is, you can't be the same ever again once you've experienced the touch of God in your life. I mean, more than just you're walking down an aisle, which is a wonderful thing to do. We're going to do that in a minute, hopefully. It's a wonderful thing to sign a card, sign up. It's a wonderful thing to be baptized. There's something a whole other level when the spirit of the living God steps in your heart and life and just grabs you and changes everything." [32:56] (27 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "You know one thing you discover when you've been touched by Jesus? He's enough. He's all I need. He really is enough. You know what else you discover? It took me a while to discover this. Because Jesus is enough, and Jesus is in me. You know what that means? Who I am enough. I spent most of my life still struggling with this. Most of my life never feeling like I was enough. I wasn't good enough. I can't talk. I can't do this. All the struggles in my life, all that stuff. But the fact is, Jesus is enough. He's enough." [34:13] (37 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
### Quotes for members
1. "There's always a decision. Some people say yes to God's call. Some people say no to God's call. Some people stay in the boat. Some people walk on water by faith. That's the point. And then fifth, because once you make that decision, there's a changed life. Peter's going to walk on water by faith. He's going to go out there, and of course, he's going to have the greatest moment of his life. He's going to walk on water. He's going to have the scariest moment of his life, because he's going to take his eyes off Jesus and start to sink." [06:20] (32 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "You know, the only way I get here, only way I get here, you know, I'm still, I can't get over the miracle one that my name is registered in heaven, that I belong to Jesus. When I die, I'm going to heaven. It's an awesome way to live. I can't get over that. And also, I can't get over the miracle that God has led me through all this stuff, all of my struggles as a stutterer, all those things, all those years that led me all these years, these now 70 years of living. And he's led me here to a wonderful place, doing a wonderful thing." [14:38] (35 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "You know what? Peter is never the same after this. You know, the fact is, you can't be the same ever again once you've experienced the touch of God in your life. I mean, more than just you're walking down an aisle, which is a wonderful thing to do. We're going to do that in a minute, hopefully. It's a wonderful thing to sign a card, sign up. It's a wonderful thing to be baptized. There's something a whole other level when the spirit of the living God steps in your heart and life and just grabs you and changes everything. Changes what your past is, who you are, and who you become in Christ." [32:56] (33 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "You know what? Hey, this says this to me. Hey, that's why I'm going to get in the boat Jesus tells me to get into. Obviously, these 12 guys didn't have to obey Jesus and get in that boat. They didn't have to believe him. They didn't have to follow him. They said, I'm going to believe I'm getting in the boat. I decided I'm going to follow Jesus. That's the only way he made them. He's leading them. He's leading us." [14:38] (26 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "You know what? Peter experienced the touch of Jesus. Let that sink in for a second. He experienced that touch, because you know, he takes his eyes off. Like I said earlier, he takes his eyes off Jesus. You know, it's amazing, because everything that scared these disciples. Those circumstances, the wind, the wave, the storm, the darkness, all that stuff, it's just on top of them. They don't know how to handle it. But Jesus is on top of all that. I mean, everything that's scary to them, Jesus is above. That's true with us." [31:30] (34 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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