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Trusting Jesus in the midst of worry

by Mike Vandermause on November 16, 2017

Tricia Murphy is a self-described worrier and spoke on the topic of anxiety and worry on Sunday, November 12 at Community Church and how it can entangle us. She examined what Jesus instructed about worry (Luke 12: 22-34) and how the story of Peter walking on water with Jesus applies (Matthew 14: 22-33). Here are some highlights:

*Jesus reminds us in Luke 12 that he takes care of the birds and we are far more valuable than birds. In instructing his disciples not to worry, Jesus is tender with them, not harsh, in saying, ‘Don’t be afraid, little flock.’

*When Peter walks on the water with Jesus in Matthew 14 he is instructed to take courage and not be afraid. When Peter starts to sink he immediately cries out to Jesus, “Lord save me.” Do you do the same thing when you start to sink in your life? Do you immediately cry out to the one that can save you? Too often we try to fix things ourselves and try to control what is happening. Instead, we should turn to Jesus first.

*Peter gives voice to his worry. We should follow his example, because there’s something about verbalizing our worries to God that takes the power out of it.

*In the story in Matthew 14 Jesus reaches out his hand and grabs Peter, an example of how God keeps his promise to be there for us and to never leave us.

*Notice in the story that the storm didn’t stop immediately. Things didn’t calm down until Jesus and Peter got in the boat. That indicates that Jesus will walk with us even in the midst of the storm. It doesn’t mean he will keep us from experiencing storms. But his presence with us will provide comfort and peace. God is safe and dependable during difficult times.

*Worriers don’t tend to take risks, or are only risky when they’ve planned things out. Peter didn’t have to get out of the boat but he took a risk and trusted Jesus. The other disciples missed out on the opportunity of a lifetime. Don’t miss out on opportunities because of fear.

*When Jesus reached out and rescued Peter, their relationship was taken to another level. They knew each other on a deeper level. Jesus saved Peter from sinking, and Peter could worship him in a very special way because of that. Don't miss out on Jesus reaching down to you. He’s waiting for you to cry out. He wants a relationship with you. He wants to connect with you.

*We can take heart in these verses, which bring comfort and assurance from God:

—Luke 12:32 says that we shouldn't be afraid. 

—John 16:33 says that no matter what Jesus has overcome the world.

—Deuteronomy 31:6 says he will never leave nor forsake us.