Connect

Did you have an “I don’t got this” moment come to your mind as Scott was talking about the disciples in the boat during the storm? Tell your group about it.

Engage

Start by reading the story again from Luke 8:22-25.

Storms can be seen from a distance. You hope it is not coming in your direction. You hope it is not very strong. But with today’s technology, we get fairly good forecasts that answer those questions.

• We see a storm coming,
• We know it is coming here,
• We know it is a strong storm.

We are in a boat. We are trying to get across the lake and we know that we will be hit by a strong storm. The story from Luke admits “they were in great danger.”

• Can you explain the emotions you feel about the forecasts we are seeing for the pandemic?
• Are you panicked over your own preparations?
• Do you resent the disruption in your life and the lives of people close to you?

Scott says we have no control over this storm – that it shatters our idol of control.
• Do we need this kind of reminder that we are not God?
• Do you trust God when there is great danger?

Read James 4:10, 13-17 to hear James’ opinion of people who think they are in control of the events in their lives.

• Why does James criticize the people making business plans?
• Should plans and preparations be made, followed by diligent work?
• How would you explain in your own words the attitude James wants us to have?

Apply
All of us are rowing in the same boat right now, and there’s a storm raging that we have no control over.

• Do you feel that Jesus is near?
• Do you feel that Jesus is sleeping?
• Are you fearful?

Jesus didn’t prevent the storm or keep the boat from becoming swamped. He may not have bailed out the water or pulled an oar. He did what they couldn’t do and calmed the storm.

• What does your faith counsel you to do during our storm?
• How can we encourage one another as we wait for the storm to pass?

Pray

Father, we confess our fearfulness about the unknown future, and the health of people we love. We need wisdom to help as you have enabled us. We want to trust you fully with our lives and future. We don’t know how the world around us is changing and admit we don’t have control over that. We are your children and you love us and provide for us in ways we cannot see. Please allow us to rest in your love and provision, trust you and be content in our circumstances.