Fear Less, Trust More
Philippians 4:6-7 NIV
6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Point #1: Anxiety is a Storm- but it's not a sentence
Mark 4:35-41 NIV
35 That day when evening came, he said to his disciples, “Let us go over to the other side.” 36 Leaving the crowd behind, they took him along, just as he was, in the boat. There were also other boats with him. 37 A furious squall came up, and the waves broke over the boat, so that it was nearly swamped. 38 Jesus was in the stern, sleeping on a cushion. The disciples woke him and said to him, “Teacher, don’t you care if we drown?”
39 He got up, rebuked the wind and said to the waves, “Quiet! Be still!” Then the wind died down and it was completely calm.
40 He said to his disciples, “Why are you so afraid? Do you still have no faith?”
41 They were terrified and asked each other, “Who is this? Even the wind and the waves obey him!”
Point #2: Prayer Transforms Panic into Peace
Prayer- Turning your thoughts into conversation with God
Petition- Being honest about what you need
Thanksgiving- Remembering what God has already done in your life
Point #3: The Promise of Peace
Point #4: Fix Your Focus
Philippians 4:8 NIV
8 Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.
Point #5: Remember: You Are Not Alone
Talk It Over Questions
1. What is your most treasured holiday memory, and why does it stand out to you?
2. Read Philippians 4:6–7. Which part of the passage hits home for you right now—anxiety, prayer, petition, or thanksgiving? Why?
3. In Mark 4:35–41, the disciples faced a storm even while Jesus was in the boat. What “storm” are you currently navigating, and how can you remind yourself that the storm is not a sentence?
4. This week, what is one way you can deepen your prayer life—by talking with God more intentionally, being more honest about your needs, or choosing gratitude on purpose?
5. Read Philippians 4:8. When you feel anxious, what helps you remember that God is with you and for you? How can you anchor yourself to that truth this week?
Ask Your Kids
1. What do you think it means to shine for Jesus?
2. Where do you see light making a difference in dark places?
3. When is it hard to shine your light?
4. What are some things that YOU do that shows people Jesus?
5. Who can you show Jesus to this week?
