What steps can we take to strengthen our faith during life's challenges? when the waves rise “Suddenly a violent storm came up on the sea, so that the boat was engulfed by the waves. But Jesus was sleeping.” — Matthew 8:24 • Storms appear without warning. • They can feel overwhelming even when we are exactly where Christ told us to be (v. 18). • Jesus’ apparent silence is never absence; He is present, even if He seems to be sleeping. remember who is in the boat • Hebrews 13:5: “I will never leave you nor forsake you.” • Isaiah 43:2: “When you pass through the waters, I will be with you.” • Rehearse aloud: “Christ is with me; therefore, I cannot be swallowed by this sea.” choose faith over fear • Isaiah 26:3: “You will keep in perfect peace the steadfast of mind, because he trusts in You.” • Philippians 4:6-7: Refuse anxiety; trade it for prayer and thanksgiving. • 2 Timothy 1:7: God gives “power, love, and self-control,” not a spirit of fear. Practical step: Each time fearful thoughts surge, counter with a verse and a conscious confession of trust. anchor yourself in the word • Romans 10:17: “So faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of Christ.” • Psalm 119:11: Hide His word in your heart; it becomes ballast in rough seas. Daily rhythm: — Read a portion aloud. — Write one verse that speaks to your storm. — Repeat it when waves rise. keep the line of prayer open • Luke 18:1: Pray and don’t lose heart. • 1 Thessalonians 5:17: “Pray without ceasing.” • Philippians 4:6 again underscores continual petition with thanksgiving. Practical pattern: Short, frequent prayers—“Jesus, You’re here. Calm my heart.” lean on fellow disciples • Hebrews 10:24-25: Meet together, spur one another on. • Ecclesiastes 4:9-10: Two are better than one; if either falls, the other lifts him up. Action points: — Text a trusted believer when storms hit. — Attend corporate worship even when you feel like staying home. — Invite accountability for your thought life. rehearse past faithfulness • Psalm 77:11-12: “I will remember the deeds of the LORD.” • Lamentations 3:21-23: His mercies are new every morning. Exercise: Keep a “deliverance journal.” List previous storms and how Christ brought calm; reread it when new waves crash. step forward in obedience • James 1:22: Be doers of the word, not hearers only. • John 14:21: Obedience brings deeper revelation of His love. Even small acts—serving, giving, forgiving—strengthen spiritual muscles and shift focus from fear to faith. look ahead to the calm • Mark 4:39: “Peace! Be still!”—the inevitable end when Jesus speaks. • Romans 8:28: God works all things for good to those who love Him. • Revelation 21:4: A day is coming with no more sea-borne tears. Hope-filled mindset: The storm is temporary; the Savior’s victory is eternal. |
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