The Perfect Storm (Lesson Two)

In October of 1991 a storm stronger than any in recorded history hit the coast off of Gloucester, Massachusetts.  Boats encountered waves of 100 feet.

The Sea of Galilee is mostly peaceful but at times the surrounding mountains act like a funnel.  Cold winds crash into hot air rising off the water, producing storms.  Jesus and the Disciples set sail for the other side heading toward a Perfect Storm. 

Many times in our lives, things line up and produce a Perfect Storm.  We need to exercise faith no matter what the circumstances.

Luke 8:22-25 NASB

(22)  Now on one of those days Jesus and His disciples got into a boat, and He said to them, "Let us go over to the other side of the lake." So they launched out.

(23)  But as they were sailing along He fell asleep; and a fierce gale of wind descended on the lake, and they began to be swamped and to be in danger.

(24)  They came to Jesus and woke Him up, saying, "Master, Master, we are perishing!" And He got up and rebuked the wind and the surging waves, and they stopped, and it became calm.

(25)  And He said to them, "Where is your faith?" They were fearful and amazed, saying to one another, "Who then is this, that He commands even the winds and the water, and they obey Him?"

Last week we looked at everyone involved.  This week, we will explore the principles learned. 

Following the Lord is not a safeguard against trials and tribulations.  We never know what any 24-hour period holds.  One phone call, one doctor’s visit, one storm and we are left devastated and depressed.

There was no one like Job and yet he faced trials and tribulations.  Joseph’s brothers after mistreating him sold him into slavery taking him away from his home and family.

John 16:33  "These things I have spoken to you, so that in Me you may have peace.  In the world you have tribulation, but take courage; I have overcome the world."

Trusting the Lord glorifies Him.  Abraham fully believed in God and it pleased God.  God is always pleased when his children maintain faith in His Word.

Hebrews 11:6  And without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is and that He is a rewarder of those who seek Him.

Christ is worthy of worship whether He calms our storms or not.  Sometimes he calms the storms.  Sometimes he calms our hearts in the midst of the storm.

How is your faith? 

Ask Him now to strengthen your faith in the mist of the storm.