In this Beyond season, we’re asking a bold question: What if God wants to do more, in us, through us, and for us, than we’ve ever dared to imagine?

Key Takeaway

Everything good God has for you is on the other side of what God asks of you.

We are in week five of our series “Beyond,” exploring how God can move through us when we look beyond our limitations.

Scripture reminds us that he is able to accomplish infinitely more than we can ask or imagine (Ephesians 3:20). Yet, as we follow him, life often pushes back, leaving us with two familiar questions: “Am I going to make it?” and “Why did I say yes?”

In Mark 4:35–38, Jesus’ disciples found themselves in that exact situation. They were on a boat in the middle of the Sea of Galilee when a fierce storm arose.

Despite being experienced fishermen, fear overtook them. They questioned whether they would survive, even though they had stepped into that boat at Jesus’ invitation.

In verse 40, Jesus asks them, “Why are you afraid?” His question challenges us today. What is holding you back? What fear is keeping you from trusting God fully?

If he can command the wind and the waves (Mark 4:39), is there anything we need to fear? God is calling each of us to step into this movement of faith we call “Beyond.”

Saying yes to him does not mean we will avoid the storms of life. It does mean we can trust the one who calms those storms. Wherever God is leading you, he is able to accomplish his plans through you. If he said we are going to the other side, then we can believe he will get us there.

The challenge is to look beyond fear and step forward in faith, knowing that every good thing God has for us is on the other side of obedience.

Pray

Prayer is our time to talk to God. Let this prayer inspire your conversations with God this week.

Father, You are able to do so much more than I can think or imagine. You could do it all on your own, but you choose to invite me to take part in the miracles you make happen everyday. Thank you.

Jesus, you promised that when we step out in faith to further your Kingdom, you will be with us. There are big things in my life that I have been afraid of. Forgive me for letting my fear of the storm keep me from trusting in you. I believe that when you tell me to go I will make it to the other side, even when the waters get rocky. I thank you for the storms that have helped to shape me into someone who is becoming more like you every day.

Holy Spirit please guide me as I pray about how I can take part in this season in our church. I pray for the 1.8 million people within Journey City to know your love. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Worship

Bring the worship set from this weekend into your Slot and Spot and praise him for his presence in the storm.

• I Know That I Know by The Belonging Co.
• So Much More by Red Rocks Worship
• Bless God by Brooke Ligertwood

Learn

This week, read through the scripture shared in the message and dive deeper into God’s word.

• Read Ephesians 3:20-21
• Read Mark 4:35-41
• Read Romans 12:2
• Read Perseverance Day 3 
• Watch – Mark Overview from Bible Project
• Listen – Mark 4 from Through the Word

Reflect

Reflect on these questions during your Slot and Spot/discussions with others.

Have you ever been in a situation where you found yourself wondering “Am I going to survive this?”

• What made the situation so scary? How does a “renewed mind” change the way you view the question, “Am I going to make it?”

Read Mark 4:35-41. Jesus tells the disciples to cross the lake, and then a storm breaks out. Have you ever experienced a “storm” in the middle of doing something God led you to?

• If God set the destination, why do we often feel abandoned in our storms?
• In what way has God used the storms in your life to change the way you think and see the world?
• What feelings, questions, or doubts arose for you during that time?
• What lesson can you take from that experience as you continue on your faith journey?

There are a lot of things that can scare us away from giving God our “yes”. What “storm” are you afraid of?

• What would you do if you weren’t afraid?
• How can you use your faith to overcome fear? What would it look like to trust His “Quiet! Be still!” over your fear?

Considering what you have learned from the teaching this week, what next step do you feel God calling you to take in your faith right now?

• How do you believe that step would impact your faith/life/relationships?

Next Steps

BEYOND is about more than programs or buildings – it’s about helping more people experience God, grow together, and make a difference for Jesus. God is inviting you to be a part of it. Visit yourjourney.tv/give to see what that looks like for you.

The BEYOND Guide has resources for your Slot and Spot. Follow along each day this week and take time to reflect and respond to what God might be saying to you. Didn’t get a copy of the guide? Grab a digital version here: BEYOND Guide.