Faith in the Midst: Surviving The Storm Of The Century

Matthew 14:22–32 KJV 1900

And straightway Jesus constrained his disciples to get into a ship, and to go before him unto the other side, while he sent the multitudes away. And when he had sent the multitudes away, he went up into a mountain apart to pray: and when the evening was come, he was there alone. But the ship was now in the midst of the sea, tossed with waves: for the wind was contrary. And in the fourth watch of the night Jesus went unto them, walking on the sea. And when the disciples saw him walking on the sea, they were troubled, saying, It is a spirit; and they cried out for fear. But straightway Jesus spake unto them, saying, Be of good cheer; it is I; be not afraid. And Peter answered him and said, Lord, if it be thou, bid me come unto thee on the water. And he said, Come. And when Peter was come down out of the ship, he walked on the water, to go to Jesus. But when he saw the wind boisterous, he was afraid; and beginning to sink, he cried, saying, Lord, save me. And immediately Jesus stretched forth his hand, and caught him, and said unto him, O thou of little faith, wherefore didst thou doubt? And when they were come into the ship, the wind ceased.

Key Idea: Jesus is never bothered by the worlds storms but calmly navigates through them. He invites his people to walk through the storms with Him.

Hook: Imagine a man on a bustling city street, holding a flimsy umbrella as a storm rages around him. The wind flips the umbrella inside out, rain soaks him to the bone, and people rush by, offering no help. It’s chaotic, overwhelming, and isolating. For many, life’s storms feel just like that: financial strain, relationship struggles, or health battles.

The question is: Where do you turn when the storm of the century hits?

Audience need: What storms are you facing this season? Financial, emotional, familial? Storms aren’t just meteorological events—they are life’s challenges that seem insurmountable.

Transition into sermon: In Matthew 14, we see Jesus calmly walking through the chaos of a storm, proving His authority over it. He invites Peter—and us—to step out in faith, trusting Him to guide us through life’s tempests. We are going to see how Jesus demonstrates His power and extends His invitation to walk with Him through the storm.

An Easy Mission

Key Idea: Jesus gives His disciples a task they are qualified for while He handles the harder work.

Text: Matthew 14:22

Jesus sends the disciples to cross the Sea of Galilee while He ministers to the crowds. They are experienced fishermen, capable of handling the boat. But while they handle the “easy” part, Jesus deals with the harder ministry of teaching, healing, and sending people away.

Illustration: Picture a teacher asking her students to cut out simple shapes while she sets up a complex science experiment. The task is within their skillset, but the teacher is still overseeing everything.

Application: Sometimes we feel capable in our areas of expertise—at work, in relationships, or in ministry. But even in those moments, we must remember who is holding it all together. Jesus is always the one doing the heavy lifting.

The Storm of The Century

Key Idea: Life doesn’t follow our expectations—it often brings storms we never saw coming.

Text: Matthew 14:24

The disciples likely thought their day was over—a simple sail across the lake. But out of nowhere, the storm of the century hit.

Illustration: Imagine being on a cruise, relaxing by the pool, when suddenly a violent storm hits. Chaos ensues, drinks spill, and you’re left clutching for stability.

Application: Life often catches us off guard: an unexpected diagnosis, a sudden financial crisis, or a relationship unraveling. But while storms surprise us, they never surprise God. He sees them coming and knows how to guide us through.

Brave But Limited Faith

Key Idea: Peter’s faith was bold but imperfect, giving Jesus the chance to prove His power.

Text: Matthew 14:28-30

Peter shows courage by stepping out of the boat, but his fear overtakes him. He cries out, and Jesus immediately reaches out to save him.

Illustration:

Think of a firefighter rushing into a burning building. His bravery gets him into the flames, but when the fire becomes overwhelming, he radios for help. Peter’s courage got him onto the water, but Jesus’ power saved him when the storm overwhelmed him.

Application: You might be the brave one in your family or community, stepping into challenges others avoid. But even bravery has its limits. Jesus meets you where your courage falters, proving His strength in your weakness.

The Calming Correction Of Jesus

Key Idea: Jesus lovingly corrects us to grow our faith.

Text: Matthew 14:31

Jesus’ words, “O you of little faith,” weren’t harsh condemnation. They were a gentle reminder of Peter’s need to trust fully.

Illustration:

Picture a parent teaching a child to ride a bike. When the child falls, the parent doesn’t scold but lovingly explains what went wrong and encourages them to try again.

Application:

Jesus’ correction often stings, but it’s always for our good. He isn’t content to leave us in fear—He wants us to grow into people who trust Him fully, even in the storm.

Conclusion: Step Out in Faith

Imagine yourself in the boat of your life, gripping the edge as the storm rages around you. The wind howls, waves crash, and everything feels out of control. Then, through the chaos, you see Jesus

He isn’t panicked or shouting directions from the shore. He’s standing on the water, calm and steady, looking at you with love in His eyes.

And He says one word: “Come.”

What will you do? Will you cling to the boat, or will you let go and step out in faith?

Your storm may feel overwhelming, but Jesus is bigger. He’s not just offering a lifeline—He’s offering Himself. Will you trust Him? Will you let Him calm your fears, strengthen your faith, and walk with you through the storm?

Invitation:

Song

Benediction

May the God who commands the winds and the waves fill your heart with peace in the midst of every storm.

May you walk in faith, knowing that Jesus is with you, guiding your steps, even when the waters seem overwhelming.

May His strength be your anchor, His love your refuge, and His grace your calm.

Go now in the power of His presence, stepping boldly out of the boat and into His arms, trusting that He is the Lord over every storm and the Savior of your soul.

In the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit,

Amen.