It’s easy to get caught up in our problems and think, my life is a wreck and it’s not going to change. Our eyes are on the problems and we begin to lose hope. When that happens to me, my best and often only hope is to get into the Word and see my problems from a biblical perspective.
Bible Study: Keeping the Faith in the Storms of Life
1. Read Mark 4:35-41. Why do you think Jesus was able to sleep through a wild storm like that?
2. Sometimes life can feel like a storm. Problems arise and threaten to capsize our boats. We worry. We stew. But nothing seems to help. Are you going through one of those situations right now? If so, describe it. If not, what’s your biggest trial right now?
3. The disciples were afraid their boat would capsize. What’s your worst fear with the situation you’re in?
4. If your fear comes true, do you think God will think it’s terrible? Why or why not?
5. Read Mark 4:38. Do you ever feel like God doesn’t care about your problem?
6. Why do you think Jesus didn’t calm the storm before the disciples had a chance to get really frightened and stressed out?
7. Read Mark 4:39. Could God instantly solve your problem like He did for the disciples?
8. Why do you think He hasn’t done that? (See also Hebrews 12:5-14.)
9. How is your trial affecting your relationship with God and others?
10. More often than not, our natural response to trials is to get all upset and worried. Or we’ll do something to get our minds off the trial – drown our sorrows in ice cream for example or waste a bunch of time on the Internet. What kinds of things are you doing to cope with your current trial?
11. Read Mark 4:17b, 19 and Hebrews 12:11. Do you have to be careful how you respond to trials? Why or why not?
12. Read Hebrews 12:1-2, 11 and Romans 12:2. What will you need to do if you want to grow closer to God and more like Him as a result of this trial?
13. Read Mark 4:38-40, Psalm 46:1-2, and Romans 8:28. What do you think God is trying to tell you about your trial?
14. Is this one of those situations where you can’t do anything and just need to trust in God, or do you think God wants you to do something you’re not currently doing? If it’s the latter, what do you think He wants you to do?
15. Read Daniel 3:17-18. Are you willing to worship God even if things don’t turn out the way you want them to turn out with this trial?
Image courtesy of Dan / FreeDigitalPhotos.net
When I’ve gone through the storms, it’s just been by repeating to myself the simple truths that I’ve heard all my life – but yet are so powerful. 1. God is good, he loves you, and he wants what’s best for you. 2. God is wise. 3. God is powerful.
Just repeating that to myself over and over again is an intense therapy session.
Love this Loren! Is it o.k. if I post it? I put it on my blog. I credited you and linked your blog to it. If you don’t approve I’ll remove it.
Thank You!
That’s a great idea, Loren. I’ve been doing a similar thing lately. I remind myself of these truths: 1. My home is in heaven. 2. My hope is in heaven. 3. My God is in heaven. 4. My treasure is in heaven. 5. My reward is in heaven.
It’s amazing what reading our Bible and connecting with God does when going through the storms of life. Great study Barb!
I feel the same way, Dan. He makes all the difference.
This was my Christmas gift Barb. Thank You! God Bless! (((HUGS)))
Hope you had a great Christmas, Elizabeth – I love the fact that an opportunity to fellowship with God and discuss life with Him is a gift. I feel the same way!
His gifts are so many and so great, “if” I take the time to remember. Unfortunately I was in a bad mood about life that morning and you took the time to share the reminder of where my thoughts belonged! And my JOY is in Heaven! :o)