Stepping Out in Faith: Trusting Jesus Through Storms
Summary
### Summary
Today, we explored the theme of stepping out in faith, using the metaphor of "getting out of the boat." I shared my personal journey from being a shy, introverted child to becoming a pastor, emphasizing how God transforms our weaknesses into strengths for His glory. This transformation is not unique to me; it is a testament to God's power in all our lives. We also discussed the concept of "God winks" or inflection points—moments where we can see God's hand guiding us, often in retrospect. These moments are reminders of His constant presence and guidance.
We then turned to the story of Peter walking on water in Matthew 14:22-33. This story illustrates the importance of faith and the willingness to step out of our comfort zones, even in the midst of life's storms. Peter's initial boldness to walk on water was commendable, but his fear caused him to sink. Jesus' immediate response to save Peter highlights His readiness to help us when we falter. This narrative serves as a powerful reminder that Jesus is always with us, even in our most challenging times.
We also examined the different types of storms we face—storms of correction and storms of perfection. Both types serve to glorify God and refine our faith. Jesus sometimes allows us to go through these storms, but He is always interceding for us and comes to our aid at the perfect time. The story of Peter walking on water teaches us that our focus should remain on Jesus, not on the surrounding chaos. When we shift our focus from Him, we begin to sink, but His hand is always there to lift us up.
Finally, we discussed the importance of prayer and constant communication with God. Jesus Himself prayed for His disciples and continues to intercede for us. We are encouraged to follow His example and pray without ceasing, especially during our storms. The ultimate message is clear: trust in Jesus, get out of the boat, and witness how He calms the storms in our lives for His glory.
### Key Takeaways
1. God Transforms Weakness into Strength: Our weaknesses are not obstacles but opportunities for God to demonstrate His power. Just as He transformed my shyness into a strength for ministry, He can use your weaknesses for His glory. Reflect on your life and identify areas where God has turned your weaknesses into strengths. [02:50]
2. Recognize God Winks: These are moments where we can see God's hand guiding us, often in retrospect. They serve as reminders of His constant presence and guidance. Take time to reflect on your life and identify these inflection points, acknowledging God's work in your journey. [05:45]
3. Faith Requires Action: Like Peter, we must be willing to step out of the boat, even in the midst of storms. Our faith is demonstrated through our actions, not just our beliefs. When we focus on Jesus, we can walk on water, but when we focus on the storm, we begin to sink. Keep your eyes on Jesus. [08:45]
4. Jesus Intercedes for Us: Jesus is always praying for us, even when we are in the midst of our storms. This should encourage us to pray without ceasing, following His example. Our prayers are powerful and necessary for navigating life's challenges. [22:25]
5. Storms Serve a Purpose: Whether they are storms of correction or perfection, they ultimately serve to glorify God and refine our faith. Trust that your storm is not in vain; it is a tool for God's glory and your growth. Embrace the storm, knowing that Jesus is with you and will see you through it. [17:49]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[01:25] - The Shy Boy's Journey
[02:50] - God's Strength in Our Weakness
[04:17] - Inflection Points and God Winks
[05:45] - A Family God Wink
[07:13] - Reflecting on God Winks
[08:45] - Peter Walks on Water
[10:11] - Life's Storms
[11:43] - Chippy the Parakeet
[12:58] - Jesus' Promise of Peace
[14:18] - America's Storm
[16:04] - Jesus Allows Storms
[17:49] - Storms of Correction and Perfection
[19:09] - Jonah's Storm of Correction
[20:40] - Storms of Perfection
[22:25] - Jesus Prays for Us
[24:06] - The Importance of Prayer
[25:41] - Jesus Comes for Us
[27:24] - The Fourth Watch of the Night
[29:03] - Fear and Faith
[30:49] - Peter's Faith and Doubt
[32:17] - Help My Unbelief
[33:53] - Jesus Lifts Us Up
[35:33] - Jesus Sees Us Through
[37:01] - Worship in the Storm
[38:32] - Immediate Help
[40:07] - Invitation to Know Jesus
[40:07] - Closing Prayer
Study Guide
### Bible Reading
1. Matthew 14:22-33: The story of Peter walking on water.
2. John 16:33: "These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world."
3. 1 Peter 1:6-7: "In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while, if need be, you have been grieved by various trials, that the genuineness of your faith, being much more precious than gold that perishes, though it is tested by fire, may be found to praise, honor, and glory at the revelation of Jesus Christ."
### Observation Questions
1. What was Peter's initial reaction when he saw Jesus walking on the water, and what did he ask Jesus to do? ([08:45])
2. How did Jesus respond when Peter began to sink after walking on the water? ([08:45])
3. According to the sermon, what are the two types of storms we face, and what purpose do they serve? ([17:49])
4. What does the term "God winks" refer to, and how did the pastor illustrate this concept with a personal story? ([05:45])
### Interpretation Questions
1. How does the story of Peter walking on water illustrate the importance of keeping our focus on Jesus during life's storms? ([30:49])
2. In what ways can recognizing "God winks" in our lives strengthen our faith and trust in God's guidance? ([05:45])
3. How can understanding the difference between storms of correction and storms of perfection help us navigate our own challenges? ([17:49])
4. What does it mean for Jesus to intercede for us, and how should this influence our own prayer life? ([22:25])
### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a time when you felt weak or inadequate. How did God transform that weakness into a strength for His glory? ([02:50])
2. Identify a "God wink" or inflection point in your life. How did this moment reveal God's presence and guidance to you? ([05:45])
3. Think about a current storm you are facing. How can you shift your focus from the chaos around you to Jesus, just as Peter needed to do? ([30:49])
4. How can you incorporate more consistent and heartfelt prayer into your daily routine, especially during challenging times? ([24:06])
5. Consider a recent challenge or trial. How might this be a storm of correction or perfection in your life? What is God teaching you through this experience? ([17:49])
6. When was the last time you stepped out of your comfort zone in faith? What was the outcome, and how did it impact your relationship with God? ([07:13])
7. How can you support someone else who is going through a storm, helping them to see Jesus' presence and intercession in their life? ([22:25])
Devotional
Day 1: God Transforms Weakness into Strength
God can turn our weaknesses into strengths for His glory. Reflect on your life and identify areas where God has turned your weaknesses into strengths. This transformation is not just a personal experience but a testament to God's power in all our lives. When we allow God to work through our weaknesses, we become vessels of His strength and grace. This is a reminder that our limitations are not barriers but opportunities for God to demonstrate His power. [02:50]
2 Corinthians 12:9-10 (ESV): "But he said to me, 'My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.' Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me. For the sake of Christ, then, I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities. For when I am weak, then I am strong."
Reflection: Think of a specific weakness you have struggled with. How has God used this weakness to demonstrate His strength in your life? How can you continue to allow Him to work through this area?
Day 2: Recognize God Winks
God winks are moments where we can see His hand guiding us, often in retrospect. These inflection points serve as reminders of His constant presence and guidance. By reflecting on these moments, we can acknowledge God's work in our journey and be encouraged by His faithfulness. Take time to reflect on your life and identify these God winks, recognizing how they have shaped your path and strengthened your faith. [05:45]
Psalm 37:23-24 (ESV): "The steps of a man are established by the Lord, when he delights in his way; though he fall, he shall not be cast headlong, for the Lord upholds his hand."
Reflection: Reflect on a significant moment in your life where you can now see God's guidance. How did this moment shape your faith and understanding of His presence? How can you remain attentive to future God winks?
Day 3: Faith Requires Action
Faith is not just about belief but also about action. Like Peter, we must be willing to step out of the boat, even in the midst of storms. Our faith is demonstrated through our actions, and when we focus on Jesus, we can overcome the challenges before us. However, when we focus on the storm, we begin to sink. Keep your eyes on Jesus and take bold steps of faith, trusting that He will guide and sustain you. [08:45]
James 2:17-18 (ESV): "So also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead. But someone will say, 'You have faith and I have works.' Show me your faith apart from your works, and I will show you my faith by my works."
Reflection: Identify an area in your life where you need to take a step of faith. What action can you take today to demonstrate your trust in Jesus, despite the challenges you may face?
Day 4: Jesus Intercedes for Us
Jesus is always praying for us, even when we are in the midst of our storms. This should encourage us to pray without ceasing, following His example. Our prayers are powerful and necessary for navigating life's challenges. Knowing that Jesus intercedes for us provides comfort and strength, reminding us that we are never alone. Embrace the power of prayer and make it a constant part of your life, especially during difficult times. [22:25]
Romans 8:34 (ESV): "Who is to condemn? Christ Jesus is the one who died—more than that, who was raised—who is at the right hand of God, who indeed is interceding for us."
Reflection: Consider a current challenge you are facing. How can you incorporate more prayer into your daily routine to seek Jesus' guidance and support? How does knowing that Jesus is interceding for you change your perspective on this challenge?
Day 5: Storms Serve a Purpose
Whether they are storms of correction or perfection, they ultimately serve to glorify God and refine our faith. Trust that your storm is not in vain; it is a tool for God's glory and your growth. Embrace the storm, knowing that Jesus is with you and will see you through it. These experiences are opportunities for spiritual growth and deeper reliance on God. [17:49]
1 Peter 1:6-7 (ESV): "In this you rejoice, though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been grieved by various trials, so that the tested genuineness of your faith—more precious than gold that perishes though it is tested by fire—may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ."
Reflection: Reflect on a recent storm you have faced. How did this experience refine your faith and bring you closer to God? How can you embrace future storms with a perspective of growth and trust in God's purpose?
Quotes
### Quotes for Outreach
1. "One lesson that I've learned over my life is that God takes your weaknesses, and he makes them your strength in his kingdom for his glory. That's what he did in my life. He took my weakness, my shy, introverted self. Excuse me, shy, introverted self. I'm still here. I'm still here. I'm still here. I'm still here. I'm still here. I'm still introverted. Don't get me wrong. But God has allowed me to overcome that. He's taken my weakness, and he's made them his strength in his kingdom." [02:50] (27 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "If you're willing to do your part in following him, you will one day look back, and you'll see exactly where he's been moving, where he's been guiding you and leading you and changing your life. You can look back and see these moments. I call them inflection points. Or somebody has said they're God winks in our life. Moments in our life where God is not there. God is not there. God is not there. God has kind of winked at us, and we can see our life taking a different course." [04:17] (29 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "The Lord has a way of taking our weakness, molding it in his loving hands, allowing it to be a part of our life. And he's done that. He's done that. He's done that. For days, weeks, months, and even years until we are ready, then turning it into a beautiful thing that glorifies himself in magnificent ways. Praise the Lord for the God winks in our life." [07:13] (23 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "Perhaps you're here today feeling sucked in, washed up, and blown over. Your song is gone. Well, I have good news for you. Jesus is there for you. He comes in our storm like Chippy. We can't wait to hear what he has to say. I've heard from many new believers, they say, Well, why didn't life get easier when I accepted Jesus as my Savior? I said, Jesus never promised that our life would get easier. As a matter of fact, most of the time, our life gets harder when we accept Christ as our Savior because Satan is out to get us at that point." [12:58] (38 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "When you have Christ in your life, you have no reason to fear because Jesus comes for us during our storms. Also, Jesus helps us grow during our storms. If we get out of the boat, this is my favorite part of the whole story. Verse 28. And Peter answered him and said, Lord, if it is you command me to come to you on the water. So he said, come. And when Peter had come down out of the boat, he walked on the water to Jesus." [30:49] (29 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
### Quotes for Members
1. "If we're all willing to be honest, we can all look back and see our little inflection points in our life. I want to encourage you to look back in your life. Look at the inflection point in your life. Look at these God winks that God has given us. The Lord has a way of taking our weakness, molding it in his loving hands, allowing it to be a part of our life. And he's done that. He's done that. He's done that. For days, weeks, months, and even years until we are ready, then turning it into a beautiful thing that glorifies himself in magnificent ways. Praise the Lord for the God winks in our life." [07:13] (44 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "Jesus allows us to go through storms, but we can be sure of our next point. Jesus prays for us during our storms. Verse 23. And when he had sent the multitudes away, he went up on the mountain by himself to pray. Now when evening came, he was alone there. But the boat was now in the middle of the sea, tossed by the waves. For the wind was contrary. The disciples were out in the middle of the sea, fighting for their lives. Jesus loved them dearly and didn't want them to die. And we see him alone praying for them." [22:25] (39 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "When you're in the middle of your storm and your focus shifts from Jesus to your circumstances, you will always begin to sink. Always. The spirit of our storms will cause us to be buffeted left and right and to sink very quickly. But the spirit of God will lift us up out of our trials into perfect peace with Jesus Christ. Notice that when Peter cried out, scripture says in verse 31, and immediately Jesus stretched out his hand and caught him. Jesus immediately stretched out his hand and caught Peter as he sunk beneath the waves." [33:53] (41 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "When Jesus comes to us in our storms, he was walking on the water. These storms that were about to kill these disciples was just an easy walk for Jesus. Our storms are an easy walk for him. We forget this very often. And when we forget this, we forget that we're not alone. We're not alone. We forget it. We become fearful. Many are fearful about our country right now. Why are we afraid? We're afraid for the same reason that the disciples are afraid. They were afraid because they weren't looking for Jesus." [29:03] (31 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "The disciples saw Jesus and they worshiped him. Let's change people. Let's change our reaction. When we're in the middle of the storm, the first thing we ought to do is to worship Jesus. Just like the disciples. When you have a walk with God in your life, when you have a God wink in your life, the first thing that we need to do is get down. Worship him. I want to close today with one last miracle that often gets overlooked in this story. In John's account of this episode, we read this, John 6, 21. Then they willingly received him into the boat and immediately the boat was at the land where they were going." [37:01] (48 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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