Beyond the Weekend

August 19 | The Storm

August 19, 2021

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE

The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell with a great crash. Matthew 7:27

Read: Matthew 7:24-27
Listen: 
Matthew 7

TODAY’S MESSAGE

Jesus knows storms happen. He wants his listeners to be prepared when they come. Jesus also doesn’t shy away from talking about what happens if people ignore his teachings. Instead, he directly addresses the uncomfortable truth that ignoring his words and not putting them into practice results in destruction.

We need to build in a way that withstands the coming storm. It’s easy to create a sunshine faith that’s built for the best of days. But the storms will come, and Jesus offers a way to stand firm. We may face a financial crisis that brings prolonged stress. A medical diagnosis may take physical, emotional and psychological toll. Our loved ones may face a prolonged challenge that shakes us. Yet through it all, our faith can stand firm when we turn to Jesus for help to put his words into practice. He walks with us through the storm.

Pastor Jeff Manion shares how Jesus’s storm warning relates to life here and possibly eternity. We can say “no” to Jesus and his teachings, believing we are just fine without him. Yet it’s possible that as we continually say “no” to him—he may withdraw his presence, life and light. Refusing God’s kingdom in this life leads to not being part of his kingdom and an eternity separated from God. We can turn to Jesus today and tell him we need him and desire his kingdom to come in our lives right now (Matthew 6:10).

IN YOUR CHAIR TIME TODAY

Take time to think about the storms you are facing and if there are any areas you’ve said “no” to Jesus. Ask God to help your faith stand firm and to say “yes” to him. “God, this storm feels so big, and I cannot stand on my own. I need your help. I desire to say “yes” to you, even in this. Give me your strength to follow you. Amen.” If you are struggling, please reach out to us at btw@adabible.org. We would love to pray with you.


NEW TESTAMENT READING PLAN

Join us this year as we read through the New Testament.

Today’s reading is Galatians 2.


Download a printable PDF of the BTW week here.

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