Living Unwavering in the Storms

Preacher: Madz Deyzel

Worship:
Meditate on the song “No longer slaves”. What statement of truth in the lyrics, stands out for you?

Check-in:
Share with the group one thing (scripture/thought) that stood out for you from your quiet time this past week.

Synopsis of message:
Guest preacher; Madz Deyzel shared an encouraging, yet challenging message regarding fear. She began by asking us: “How differently would you be living your life if you had no fear? AND “How differently would you be living your life if you have no fear in a storm?”

She highlighted the following four points:

1. Storms expose fear narratives.
   • Fear has an author: The enemy’s strategy is to get us to doubt the goodness, the character and the truth of God. We then default to self-reliance.
   • Own your internal narratives: Our narrative may be: “Jesus is asleep to my needs. He doesn’t care.” Mark 4:35-41
2. Storms reveal the strength of your foundations.
   • The narrative exposes what your faith is in: The storm will reveal the strength and stability of what you place your security in, eg. The Boat.
   • What do you put your trust in?: (Micah 7:5 & 7) We are not called to trust in this world but in God. Living steadfast in a storm is all about being built on a firm foundation. (Psalm 146:3-4 and Matthew 7:24-27)
3. Storms are opportunities for others to live.
   • Calling doesn’t negate storms: (Acts 27:20-26) Don’t let storms destroy your hope, your calling, your purpose.
   • Life is the fruit of faith in the midst of the storms: (Acts 27:25) Paul demonstrates a different response than the disciples. They were filled with FEAR whereas he was filled with FAITH. Paul declares: “I believe God!” The difference between victim and victor is not circumstances but choice.
4. Rooted in Jesus: Fear is not the heart of God for us; 2 Timothy 1:7.
   • Rooted in power: (2 Corinthians 12:9) His power is increased when we submit to surrender.
   • Rooted in His love: (1 John 4:18 and 4:9-10) Because of His great love, he died to give us eternal life, and so that no earthly storm can cause us to face eternal perish. This is how Paul was rooted.
   • Rooted in self-discipline: (Isaiah 26:3) The biblical definition of sound mind/self-discipline is self-control and moderation. Consider your thoughts; are they rooted in truth or tension; promises or problems; storms or our Saviour. (Philippians 4:6-7)

His desire is for us to have peace, even in the storm.

Discussion questions:

1. What internal narratives do you have during difficult times? How can you rephrase these narratives to reflect a deeper trust in God’s goodness and character?
2. How have you experienced storms in your life as opportunities for growth or for helping others, and what lessons did you learn from those challenges?
3. In what practical ways can you strengthen your foundation of faith to ensure that you remain steadfast during life’s storms?

Additional resources:

• Finding God’s Truth in the Storms of Life (YouVersion)
• Choosing Faith Over Fear (YouVersion)
• Water-walking Faith (RightNow Media)