Big Idea: In the journey of life, we all encounter storms - moments of profound challenge and adversity. Sometimes these storms bring the pain of loss and disappointment, inevitable aspects of the human experience. The manner in which we navigate them will ultimately shape and define our journey and our walk with the Lord. 

Key Scripture: 

Isaiah 43:1-7
1 But now, O Jacob, listen to the Lord who created you. O Israel, the one who formed you says, “Do not be afraid, for I have ransomed you. I have called you by name; you are mine. 2 When you go through deep waters, I will be with you. When you go through rivers of difficulty, you will not drown. When you walk through the fire of oppression, you will not be burned up; the flames will not consume you. 3 For I am the Lord, your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior. I gave Egypt as a ransom for your freedom; I gave Ethiopia and Seba in your place. 4 Others were given in exchange for you. I traded their lives for yours because you are precious to me. You are honored, and I love you. 5 “Do not be afraid, for I am with you. I will gather you and your children from east and west. 6 I will say to the north and south, ‘Bring my sons and daughters back to Israel from the distant corners of the earth. 7 Bring all who claim me as their God, for I have made them for my glory. It was I who created them.’”

Main Idea:
Even amidst the inevitable sorrows and pains of life, God has equipped us to face the storms that will enter our lives. In Week 1, we explore the idea that, while adversity is a part of the human condition, our response to these challenges can bring glory to God.

1. Preparing for the storm

We know that life can be filled with great heartache and pain but the significance is in how we are pre-determined to respond. Setting our hearts towards worship and drawing close to the Lord and his people is vital. 

Question: Other ways we can pre-determine our response is through a heart of gratitude and knowledge of His character. What are some ways that you and I can not only practice gratitude but get to know God’s promises for ourselves? 

2. In the middle of the storm

We will all find ourselves in a Job moment, where life is heavy and the grief seems to grow. Our ability to worship through the pain and grief is what we must determine. So what am I going to do? 

1. Pray through the pain
2. Hold on to God’s nearness
3. Lean on God’s people

Question: Have you ever experienced a “Job moment” in your life? Could you share a specific instance where the presence of God’s people brought you a profound sense of His love and support? 

3. Through the storm

As we walk through the storm we set ourselves to have the mind of an overcomer. When we have the right perspective we know that this life is temporary and God will get the glory in the end. 

Note: No matter what you will or have walked through this truth will remain. Evil-God-Good

Conclusion Question - Psalm 34:18 The Lord is close to the brokenhearted; he rescues those whose spirits are crushed.  

At some point in our lives, we’ve all experienced seasons of challenge. Some of us may even unknowingly navigate through storms in the coming year. Reflecting on this message and our shared study, what aspects have uplifted your heart and how can we actively implement the insights gained into our lives.