Fearless: A Six-Week Journey Sample

Week 1: The Wind and the Waves THE WATER OF HIS WORD Read Matthew 14:22-33. In the fourth watch of the night Jesus came walking towards them on the sea. Sometimes we become so unnerved by our circumstances that we have a hard time seeing God at work in the midst of them. Particularly if the trial goes on and on. Can you relate to this? When something hits us broadside and catches us off guard or gets us when we are on shaky ground, we can completely lose our footing. We can lose sight of what we know is true. But has the Lord allowed this to help strengthen what we think we know so well? Do we truly KNOW that God is in control and do we believe that at all times? WALK ON TRUTH The wind was against them, and they were being beaten by the waves. It appeared as if the disciples were getting nowhere. But God says in His word, “Be still, and know that I am God” (Psalm 46:10). It is hard to rest in the truths of God’s word when things aren’t going well and you feel like you are going to capsize. Listen to what Jesus told His disciples before He was crucified: “In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world” (John 16:33). The waves are a good picture of the tribulation and difficulties we face. We are so tempted to fix our eyes on our problems and not on Jesus. In your time of prayer, praise God because He is God and He rules not only the wind and the waves but the entire world, including yours. Confess any unbelief or doubt. If necessary, cry out for help like Peter did: “Lord, save me” (Matthew 14:30). Begin reading John 15 as you have time. Listen to Jesus as if He is speaking to you and be encouraged. FOCUS THE EYES OF YOUR HEART Quietly recite today’s focus passage. Hide it in your heart, meditate on it, and make it your prayer throughout the day. Matthew 14:31-33 Jesus immediately reached out his hand and took hold of him, saying to him, “O you of little faith, why did you doubt?” And when they got into the boat, the wind ceased. And those in the boat worshiped him, saying, “Truly you are the Son of God.”