SCRIPTURE

Suddenly a furious storm came up on the lake, so that the waves swept over the boat. But Jesus was sleeping. The disciples went and woke him, saying, “Lord, save us! We’re going to drown!” He replied, “You of little faith, why are you so afraid?” Then he got up and rebuked the winds and the waves, and it was completely calm. - Matthew 8:24-26 NIV

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PRAYER

Lord God,

Life’s storms seem to come out of nowhere, and when they hit, sometimes it can feel like the waves just keep sweeping over me, one after another, until it seems as if I might drown. In my despair I cry out, “Are you sleeping? Do you not see what is happening here?” But, you are a mighty God. Even the winds and the waves obey you, for you are sovereign over all. Lord, please quiet the storm that rages around me; remind me that you are with me and have not taken your eyes off of me, as I fix my eyes on you. Only you can quiet my racing heart and calm my anxious thoughts. Let your peace reign in me. In turn, may I be a beacon of hope to others when waters rise, leading them to the one who rescues, guiding them to their eternal hope, found in you, Jesus.

Amen.

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JOURNAL REFLECTION

When have you felt a storm come from out of nowhere? How have you experienced Jesus calming the storm (even if it is within you while the storm rages on around you)? Who is one person you know who needs to know the peace Jesus offers in the midst of a storm in his/her life? How would that change his or her life right now? How can you come alongside this person in friendship?

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CALL TO ACTION

Right now, it can feel like we’re in the middle of a spiritual storm season. Satan is at work dividing us, wearing us down, and exploiting illness and isolation to drive us away from God. But, no matter the storms we face, we know God is sovereign and powerful over all, and he is with us without fail. Today, watch the sermon message, “Overcome...In the Storm” to be reminded that Jesus will always show up in the most challenging circumstances.