Family Devotional Lesson: Jesus Calms the Storm
Family Worship Lesson on Mark 4:35-41
Justin Hoke
7/19/20242 min read
Family Devotional Lesson: Jesus Calms the Storm
Scripture Passage: Mark 4:35-41
Opening Prayer: "Dear Heavenly Father, thank you for this time together as a family. Help us to learn from your Word and to trust in you more deeply. Open our hearts and minds to understand the lesson of Jesus calming the storm and to apply it to our lives. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen."
Introduction: Today, we will explore a powerful story where Jesus shows His authority over nature by calming a storm. This story teaches us about trust, faith, and the power of Jesus.
Reading the Scripture: Read Mark 4:35-41 aloud. Encourage family members to take turns reading the verses.
Context and Explanation:
Setting: Jesus and His disciples are crossing the Sea of Galilee after a day of teaching.
Main Characters: Jesus and His disciples.
The Storm: A great windstorm arises, and the waves begin to swamp the boat.
Jesus’ Response: Jesus is asleep in the stern. The disciples wake Him, asking if He cares that they are perishing.
The Miracle: Jesus wakes up, rebukes the wind, and says to the sea, "Peace! Be still!" The wind ceases, and there is a great calm.
The Lesson: Jesus asks the disciples, "Why are you so afraid? Have you still no faith?" The disciples are filled with great fear and say to one another, "Who then is this, that even the wind and the sea obey him?"
Discussion Points:
Jesus' Authority Over Nature:
Jesus demonstrates His divine power by calming the storm, showing that He is Lord over all creation.
Discuss: What does this miracle teach us about who Jesus is? How does knowing Jesus has power over nature help us trust Him more?
The Disciples' Fear and Faith:
The disciples are terrified during the storm and question whether Jesus cares about their safety.
Discuss: Why do you think the disciples were so afraid? How do we sometimes react like the disciples when we face difficult situations?
Jesus' Calm in the Storm:
Jesus remains calm and asleep during the storm, showing His trust in God's sovereignty.
Discuss: How can we find peace and calm in the midst of our own "storms" or challenges? What can we learn from Jesus' example?
Faith Over Fear:
Jesus rebukes the disciples for their lack of faith, teaching them to trust in Him even in the midst of chaos.
Discuss: How can we strengthen our faith in Jesus? Are there specific areas in our lives where we need to trust Him more?
Activity: Trusting Jesus
Supplies Needed: Paper, pens, and markers.
Instructions: Each family member draws a boat on a piece of paper and writes or draws inside the boat one fear or challenge they are facing. Then, write "Jesus calms the storm" above the boat. Share these fears and challenges with each other and pray together, asking Jesus to help you trust Him in these areas.
Closing Prayer: "Lord Jesus, thank you for showing us your power and authority through the story of calming the storm. Help us to trust you in all areas of our lives, especially when we face difficulties and fears. Strengthen our faith and give us peace, knowing that you are always with us. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen."
Conclusion: This lesson on Jesus calming the storm encourages us to trust in His power and presence in our lives, no matter what challenges we face. It reminds us that Jesus is Lord over all creation and that He cares for us deeply.