[lead dropcap="yes"]In a week full of all types of storms, doesn’t it feel good to know that Jesus is in our boat? As the threat of Hurricane Matthew took us out of our building, last week’s message stood out as a very real reminder that we are the building, and the church is wherever we are. [/lead]This Sunday, God met us at First Presbyterian Church of Miami for a timely message from Pastor Rich Wilkerson Jr. which reminded us that the power of Christ is revealed in life’s storms.
Completely Calm
In Mark 4:35-41 we read the story of Jesus and the disciples crossing the sea of Galilee. While they navigated towards their destination, Jesus rested. When the seas were calm, they weren’t really seeking him, there wasn’t a “need” for his presence. It wasn't until a storm raged that they sought out Jesus.Similarly, we often draw near to Jesus in life’s storms. We may not be able to escape the storm, but with Jesus, we are empowered to endure them.
There are two main reasons Jesus allows us to go through storms:
1. To develop a greater desperation for his presence.
The presence of your storm does not stop the presence of your Savior. God reveals himself the most in the storms and the valleys. So, rather than dwelling on your storm, the real question is: Will you allow this storm to develop a hunger to seek your Savior?
2. So that we would see a greater demonstration of his power.
When we are in the midst of a storm, we are tempted to think it’s up to us to solve it. Yet, God is shouting from Heaven, “I am coming to bless you and only I can solve this!” Scripture tells us that his power is made perfect in our weakness. With that truth directing our path, every problem we face is an opportunity for God to show up in a marvelous way.Going back to the story of Jesus calming the sea, the disciples found Jesus sleeping. They were terrified, but Jesus was calm and not surprised by the storm. He got up and commanded the storm to be quiet; be still! Immediately, the Bible says, that “it was completely calm."If even the wind and waves obey him, rest assured that no storm in your life is too big for Jesus. All you need is one word from him and your storm has met its match!So, is Jesus in your boat? He is only one prayer away. Invite him in, recognize that you can’t solve this on your own, and then prayerfully, lay your burdens at his feet. He is awaiting you to seek him, and as scriptures also tell us, if you seek him, you will find him.Today, we invite you to meet the one who is greater than your storm. The same power that conquered death, hell, and the grave, is LIVING in you!
Listen to the Full Message
VOUS Podcast
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Crew Week
Crews are on this week! On Monday, Thursday, and Friday, our church will be gathering in small groups all over Miami to connect, hang, and laugh together.Get in a Crew
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