Matthew 14:22-24
“Immediately after this, Jesus insisted that his disciples get back into the boat and cross to the other side of the lake, while he sent the people home. After sending them home, he went up into the hills by himself to pray. Night fell while he was there alone. Meanwhile, the disciples were in trouble far away from land, for a strong wind had risen, and they were fighting heavy waves."
Immediately after feeding the 5,000, Jesus puts the disciples in a boat while He dismisses the crowd and goes to be alone to pray. At about 3:00 am, the disciples find themselves in the middle of the lake, in the midst of a terrible storm. Maybe this is exactly what life feels like for you right now. Even though you’ve tried to make better choices and honor God, the wind and waves are blowing up against your marriage, your health, your finances, or your emotions, and you feel completely out of control. Maybe your circumstances have convinced you that Jesus has abandoned you and you are alone.
Respond
1. Have you fallen into the trap of blaming God for things not turning out the way you’d hoped they would? Take a minute to be honest and specific with God about the way you feel. Then ask Him to show you He’s still in control, even in the storm.
2. Who else comes to mind when you think about out-of-control life circumstances? Take a minute to pray for them and ask God how you might be able to encourage them during the storm.