Introduction: Why This Matters
Have you ever felt like life is out of control? Maybe you’re facing a tough situation, and it feels like you’re sinking. That’s exactly what happened to Peter when he stepped out of the boat to walk on water toward Jesus.
Today, we’ll explore what Peter’s experience teaches us about keeping our eyes on Jesus and trusting Him, even when life feels overwhelming.
1. Bible Reading: Matthew 14:22-27
“Immediately Jesus made the disciples get into the boat and go on ahead of him to the other side, while he dismissed the crowd. After he had dismissed them, he went up on a mountainside by himself to pray. Later that night, he was there alone, and the boat was already a considerable distance from land, buffeted by the waves because the wind was against it. Shortly before dawn Jesus went out to them, walking on the lake. When the disciples saw him walking on the lake, they were terrified. ‘It’s a ghost,’ they said, and cried out in fear. But Jesus immediately said to them: ‘Take courage! It is I. Don’t be afraid.'”
Explanation For Teenagers
Jesus’ disciples were scared—they were in the middle of a storm, and now they saw someone walking on water. But Jesus reassured them, telling them not to be afraid.
Fear can sometimes blind us to the fact that Jesus is with us in every storm of life.
When we feel overwhelmed, we need to remember that Jesus is always near, even when things feel uncertain.
Youth Group Discussion Questions
- Why do you think the disciples were afraid when they saw Jesus?
- Have you ever gone through something difficult and later realized God was with you?
- How can we remind ourselves that Jesus is always near when we feel afraid?
2. Bible Reading: Matthew 14:28-33
“‘Lord, if it’s you,’ Peter replied, ‘tell me to come to you on the water.’ ‘Come,’ he said. Then Peter got down out of the boat, walked on the water and came toward Jesus. But when he saw the wind, he was afraid and, beginning to sink, cried out, ‘Lord, save me!’ Immediately Jesus reached out his hand and caught him. ‘You of little faith,’ he said, ‘why did you doubt?’ And when they climbed into the boat, the wind died down. Then those who were in the boat worshiped him, saying, ‘Truly you are the Son of God.'”
Explanation For Teenagers
Peter started strong—he had enough faith to step out of the boat. But when he focused on the storm instead of Jesus, he started to sink.
Life is full of storms—challenges, struggles, and fears. The key is keeping our eyes on Jesus instead of the waves.
When we do start to sink, Jesus is right there, ready to lift us up if we call on Him.
Youth Group Discussion Questions
- What do you think gave Peter the courage to step out of the boat?
- Why did Peter start sinking, even though he was already walking on water?
- How can we keep our focus on Jesus when life gets tough?
Youth Group Game: “Storm Walk”
What You’ll Need:
- A blindfold
- Chairs, cones, or other objects to create an obstacle course
- A guide (one student per blindfolded participant)
How to Play:
- One student is blindfolded and must navigate the course.
- Another student plays the role of “Jesus” and gives verbal instructions to help them reach the end.
- Other students can make “storm noises” (wind sounds, light tapping) to create distractions.
- Afterward, discuss what it felt like trying to focus on Jesus’ voice despite the distractions.
Debrief
- How did it feel trying to follow Jesus’ voice in the storm?
- What does this game teach us about staying focused on Jesus?
- What’s one way you can trust Jesus more this week?
Closing Prayer
Lord, thank You for reminding us that no storm is too big for You. Help us to keep our eyes on You when life feels overwhelming. Strengthen our faith so that we can step out with confidence, knowing You are always near. In Jesus’ name, Amen.