17/05/2026
TAKE HEART, IT IS I, DO NOT BE AFRAID
Scripture Passage: Matthew 14:22-33
Life is often filled with unexpected storms that challenge our peace and stir up worry. In Matthew 14, the disciples found themselves physically exhausted, battling a violent wind in the middle of the night. In their moment of terror, Jesus walked on the water toward them and delivered a command that changes everything: "Take heart; it is I. Do not be afraid."
What are the reasons why we shouldn't be afraid in the difficult situations of life? Here are the three main takeaways from this week's message:
1. FEAR NOT, FOR OUR GOD IS SOVEREIGN AND IN CONTROL (vv. 22-25)
God always has a greater plan and purpose for whatever is happening in our lives. He displays His sovereign power over creation, nature, relationships, and even when evil surrounds us. Even when we do not understand the timing of God, we can experience deep peace knowing that He is always perfect in all His ways.
2. FEAR NOT, FOR OUR GOD SEES US, UNDERSTANDS OUR STRUGGLES, AND HE ALWAYS ACTS ON IT
(vv. 26-27)
Our God is not distant; Jesus is very close to us. Just as He saw His disciples making headway painfully against the wind from the mountainside, He pays close attention to the things that make us struggle today. Because Jesus personally experienced grief, physical tiredness, sorrow, and rejection, He intimately understands every pain we bear and actively comes to our rescue.
3. FEAR NOT, FOR OUR GOD STAYS THE SAME IN HIS WORDS, WORKS, AND CHARACTER (vv. 28-32)
It is easy to get distracted by the waves and forget the miracles God has already performed in our past. But because His character and promises never change, He remains completely trustworthy. When fear strikes, it is an invitation to look away from the storm, draw closer to Him, grow more dependent on Him, and declare, "Truly you are the Son of God."
No matter how high the waves feel in your life today, look away from the wind and anchor your heart in the unchanging, all-powerful Son of God. He is right there in the boat with you!
Care Group Reflection Questions:
1. In your current circumstances, what makes it difficult to trust God's timing, and how can you practically choose to rest in His sovereign control today?
2. Knowing that Jesus sees your hidden struggles and intimately understands your pain, what specific fear or burden do you need to surrender to Him?
3. Think of a time God delivered or provided for you in the past. How does remembering His unchanging faithfulness change the way you look at your current doubts?
Special thanks to Ptr. McRoger Tacuhan for delivering this powerful message. Have a blessed week, CCAC family!