Going Deeper in “The Courage to Step Out”
Read the following slowly a few times:
Matt 14:22-33; Josh 1:9; Prov 3:5-6; Isaiah 41:10; Psalm 46:1-3
Reflect on the following:
1. Why do you think Jesus sent the disciples into the storm instead of around it? What does that tell us about following Him?
2. Jesus came to the disciples while they were still in the middle of the storm. What does that teach us about God's timing?
3. Peter didn't step out until Jesus said, "Come." Why is it important to distinguish between being reckless and responding to God's call?
4. Peter walked on water only while his eyes were fixed on Jesus. What "wind and waves" most often distract you from trusting?
5. What fears most often keep you from taking a step of faith?
6. How can fear sometimes keep us from experiencing what God wants to do in and through us?
7. After the storm, the disciples worshiped Jesus and declared, "Truly you are the Son of God." How have difficult experiences strengthened your understanding of who Jesus is?
8. Have you ever experienced a time when God met you after you took a step of faith? What happened?
9. Is there an area of your life where you've been waiting for certainty instead of taking the next faithful step?
10. How might God use your willingness to step out in faith to encourage someone else?
This Week's Challenges:
1. Each morning, pray this simple prayer: "Lord Jesus, help me recognize Your voice today. Give me the courage to trust You more than my fears and the faith to take the next step You place before me."
2. Take one intentional step of obedience this week. It may seem small—a conversation, an invitation, an act of generosity, a prayer, or a new opportunity to serve. Remember, faith doesn't require seeing the whole path. It begins by trusting the One who says, "Come."