In this famous passage (Mark 4:35-41), the disciples set out across a lake and encounter a “furious squall.” The storm is so severe that even the fishermen in the boat, who essentially lived on the water, were afraid. All the while, Jesus was in the back of the boat “sleeping on a cushion.” Today we’ll talk about the “storms” in our lives today, our proper response, and how it’s actually possible to remain calm in their midst. DISCUSSION QUESTIONS 1. Consider Mark 4:35-41. The “Sea of Galilee” is actually a moderately-sized, inland, freshwater lake. The boat was about 25’ long, yet it was “nearly swamped” by the storm. Imagine how severe the storm must have been to scare even the fisherman who were well acquainted with life on the water. 2. Read Mark 4:35. What events immediately preceded the trip on the lake? What was Jesus talking about, teaching about? How is that relevant to this situation? 3. What does it mean that Jesus was able to command the wind and waves? Consider Matt 28:18. What are the implications of this idea? 4. After Jesus calmed the storm, what did he say to the disciples (Mark 4:40)? How might they have responded differently? Consider Matt 8:5-13. What did Jesus say in response to what the Centurion said? 5. What “storms” have you encountered in your life? Or right now? Has your response to these storms been more like that of the disciples in Mark 4 or the centurion in Matt 8? Why? 6. Ponder Phil 4:4-7. What are the specific commands Paul gives here (look at the verbs)? How might this help you as you encounter future storms?