READ MATTHEW 14:13-14

John the Baptist had just been cruelly and unjustly executed by Herod. John’s disciples make their way to Jesus and share the sad news with Him. Now notice this news prompts a reaction in Jesus. Usually, we see Jesus going towards the crowds of people. But here, we see Him withdrawing and moving away from the masses.

If you’ve ever lost a loved one you can understand what’s happening here. Jesus loved John. They were related to each other as cousins, and they were connected by a common call to fulfill God’s purposes. There was a bond between them as real as any bond that every existed between two people. The reality that this earthly bond was now broken produced real grief in the Son of God. So much so that He did what every one of us would want to do, which is to process our mourning in quiet privacy. And in an effort to do so, Jesus retreats to a peaceful place.

At this point, we can all relate to Jesus. We see our own emotional instincts echoed in His humanity. But it’s what happens next that reminds us of why He’s so above this world and worthy of worship. The crowds, unaware and unsympathetic of His grief, track Jesus down and rush upon Him with their flood of needs. And Matthew tells us that even in this valley of grief, Jesus “had compassion” on the crowds with all of their sickness, dysfunction, and brokenness.

This is a powerful glimpse into the heart of God. What’s He like? How does He feel about us? What would He do in this or that scenario? We see here that He’s moved with love towards people, needy people, and this love moves Him to act on their behalf, regardless of circumstances.

1. What does this passage reveal to you about the heart of God?

READ MATTHEW 14:15-21

The feeding of the five thousand offers profound spiritual lessons for our lives: First, it teaches us to trust in God’s provision. Just as Jesus multiplied the loaves and fish, God can multiply the resources available to us when we trust in His provision. Even when we feel inadequate, God’s abundance is more than sufficient to meet our needs.

Second, it encourages us to be willing to offer what we have. We may not possess vast resources, but God can use our willingness to surrender what we have, no matter how meager it may seem. In His hands, our little can become much.

Third, it reminds us of the importance of active participation in God’s work. Just as the disciples were actively involved in distributing the multiplied food, we, too, are called to participate in God’s plan for the well-being of others. We can use our gifts, talents, and resources to bless those in need.

And finally, witnessing God’s miracles bolsters our faith. When we trust in God’s abundance and actively participate in His work, we experience His miraculous provision and encounter His grace in our lives. It reminds us that nothing is impossible with God, and our faith is strengthened.

2. What does it mean to you to trust in God’s provision? What does the opposite of trusting in His provision look like?
3. How are you participating in the work God is doing around you?

READ MATTHEW 14:22-27

4. Did you know the most frequently stated command in all of Scripture is “fear not” or “do not be afraid”? It’s said 365 times in the Bible! Why do you think it’s given so many times?

As the disciples crossed the sea, darkness descends, the winds picked up, and they found themselves alone, with no land in sight, in a massive struggle with the elements.

The thing is they weren’t alone. Unbeknownst to them, Jesus was watching the entire time. In fact, He purposefully sent them into the storm to teach them (and us) something. He wanted them to struggle to the point of being fully exhausted of their own strength. And it was in that moment when Jesus walked onto the scene—literally! Their reaction? They thought they saw a ghost! Do you think they would’ve had the same reaction in daylight with some easy breezy weather? Maybe; maybe not. It’s much easier to think straight when you’re not in a panic. But Jesus sent them into the storm in order for them to see Him in a new way.

Look at the words He says to them: “Take courage! It is I. Don’t be afraid.” Do you know that the Lord purposely and purposefully sends us straight into storms? And all the while, even when we can’t see Him, He’s watching and working in these hardships and trials to grow us, accomplish His perfect will in and through us, and remind us that He’s the Lord of the storm, He’s in control of all things, and HE’S WITH US IN THE STORM.

Every tempest teaches us that we can rely on Him. Through every howling wind and crashing wave, we can be certain that He will not allow us to sink to the bottom. This is a lesson I’ve learned over and over again as if for the first time. Why? Because I always seem to forget how I’ve seen Him (many times) walk on water and calm the storm as soon as a I feel a new gust of wind. And this is why “Don’t be afraid” is the most common command in Scripture and why it’s usually accompanied by “it is I” or “I am with you.”

5. Why did Jesus send His disciples into the storm?

READ MATTHEW 14:26-36

Like the disciples, maybe you’re in the middle of a storm. Take courage, friend. Jesus has not left you to drown. He walks toward us, not away from us, during difficulties. So, be assured: He is near, and His authority over fear can bring peace to even the most troubling circumstance.

Just as Jesus knew about the storm before sending the disciples into it, He also knows about the storms we face. And perhaps like Peter, our trials stand as an opportunity for us to exercise our faith and trust in the One who walks on water. How can you take a step of faith in the midst of your storm? With your eyes set on Jesus, you, too, will surely walk on the water.

6. Reflect on a situation in your life that seems impossible or a difficult situation you’re facing. How does this story impact how you look at this problem?

This Week

Consider today how this passage serve to “anchor” you in life’s storms.

Memory Verse

“But Jesus immediately said to them: ‘Take courage! It is I. Don’t be afraid.’”—Matthew 14:27 (NIV)

Prayer Guide

Lord Jesus, anchor me in Your love and good purpose for my life as I endure the storms You’ve prepared for me to sail through. Remind me daily that even when I’m walking through the valley of the shadow of death, I have nothing to fear, FOR YOU ARE WITH ME! Thank You for being the Lord of the storm and the One in control of all things. Thank You for always being there and for never taking Your eyes off of me. Thank You that even when I do succumb to fear, Your response is always, “Take courage! It is I. Don’t be afraid.” As You told Abraham, “Do not be afraid . . . I am your shield.” As You told Joshua, “Do not be afraid . . . the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.” As You said in Isaiah, “Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be afraid, for I am your God. I will strengthen you; I will surely help you.” May these promises be ever on my heart. In Your powerful and peace-bringing name I pray, Jesus. Amen.

If you have questions you aren’t sure of, please reach out to us at CalvaryFTL.org/Questions.