Lessons from the Storm

Have you ever felt as though you are sinking in a whirlwind of troubles that surround you? Or perhaps you have had times when you were being obedient to God, yet your world somehow seemed to be falling apart. The story of Matthew 14:22-33 offers great insight into facing these storms, even when it seems impossible.

Although many of us are familiar with this story, Peter’s action provides a visualization that we cannot dismiss.  As it is told, the disciples headed out to sea as Jesus told them to do, and they were faced with a terrifying storm. After much struggle, Jesus came to them by walking on water. While the others thought Jesus may have been a ghost, Peter found himself challenging Jesus to call him out on the water! The story goes on to say that Peter too, walked on water. When he diverted his eyes back to the waves of the storm, however, he began to sink.

This story creates a direct parallel to a relationship with Christ. The truth is, we all have storms in life. The thing that makes the difference in the storm is that when our eyes, our thoughts, and our trust are fixated on the Lord, He will carry us through it.

Pastor John Opalewski provided us with 3 helpful takeaways from this story:     

      

1.       Life can change quickly.

The disciples didn’t know that the storm was coming, but they needed to be prepared to fight through it. Likewise, we need to be ready to face difficult times. Hardships are inevitable. However, building a solid foundation of trust in Christ can keep us firmly rooted on solid ground.

2.       Fear is understandable.

The disciples’ lives were likely at stake as they battled through the waves. Dealing with hard times can be scary. When we remember just who God is, however, our struggles can begin to seem less scary. Consider the passage shared on Sunday:

The Lord is my light and my salvation—

    whom shall I fear?The Lord is the stronghold of my life—    of whom shall I be afraid?
    to devour me,
it is my enemies and my foes
    who will stumble and fall.
³ Though an army besiege me,
    my heart will not fear;
though war break out against me,
    even then I will be confident.

² When the wicked advance against me

Psalm 27:1-3

3.       Decisions in the storm can be life-saving (or not).

For Peter, choosing to keep his eyes on Christ was the answer to surviving the storm. However, there may be times where we don’t have a clue about what to do with our struggles. In such times, we must pray for clarity. If necessary, seek counsel. Sometimes, we may just have to ride the storm until the answer or breakthrough comes.

Above all else, we must trust in God, as He will direct us through the storms of life. 

Written by: Tamara Sturdivant

Edited by: De Ann Sturdivant