Sep 02: Choosing Faith Over Fear
Selected Bible Passage: Matthew 14:29-31 (NIV) – “‘Come,’ he said. Then Peter got down out of the boat, walked on the water, and came toward Jesus. But when he saw the wind, he was afraid and, beginning to sink, cried out, ‘Lord, save me!’ Immediately Jesus reached out his hand and caught him. ‘You of little faith,’ he said, ‘why did you doubt?’”
Reflection:
Message:
The narrative of Peter walking on water is a vivid demonstration of the power and importance of faith. When Peter kept his eyes on Jesus, he performed an incredible feat. However, when he focused on the surrounding storm, fear took over, and he began to sink. Jesus’ response to Peter underscores the lesson that faith is crucial in overcoming the fears that life’s storms bring our way.Key Points:
1. Focus on Jesus: Keeping our eyes on Christ empowers us to do the impossible.
2. Overcoming Fear: Fear creeps in when we shift our focus from Jesus to our circumstances.
3. Faith’s Importance: Jesus’ reminder to Peter about faith highlights that trust in Him is the antidote to fear.Personal Reflection Questions:
– What storms are currently raging in my life that cause me to fear?
– How can I shift my focus back to Jesus in the midst of these storms?
– In what ways can I strengthen my faith to overcome doubt and fear?Prayer:
Guided Prayer:
Lord Jesus, thank You for being ever-present in my life, especially during the storms that threaten to overwhelm me. Help me to keep my eyes fixed on You and strengthen my faith so that I may walk above the waters of fear and doubt. Save me when I falter, and guide me back to Your steady hand and calming presence. Amen.Personal Prayer Points:
– Pray for the ability to focus on Jesus amid life’s challenges.
– Ask for increased faith to combat fear and doubt.
– Seek Jesus’ reassurance and peace in turbulent times.Action Steps:
Practical Application Tips:
– Daily Focus: Start each day with a prayer asking Jesus to help you keep your focus on Him throughout the day.
– Scripture Memorization: Memorize Matthew 14:29-31 to remind yourself of the importance of faith over fear.
– Positive Affirmation: When faced with fear, repeat affirmations of faith and God’s promises to yourself.Daily Challenges or Activities:
– Prayer Session: Dedicate a portion of your day to pray specifically about the areas in your life where fear overtakes faith.
– Encouragement Note: Write a note or message to someone struggling with fear, sharing the story of Peter and encouraging their faith.
– Faith Journal: Record moments when you felt fear and how focusing on Jesus helped you navigate through the situation.Choose faith over fear today by keeping your eyes fixed on Jesus. Let His presence be your anchor in the storm, guiding you through life’s challenges with unwavering strength and hope.
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