Lecture Notes: "Whatever You Do, Don't Drown"

Key Scripture: Mark 4:35

• Verse: "Let us cross over to the other side."
• Main Idea: God doesn't bring you this far to leave you. He will see His work to completion.

Main Message: "Whatever You Do, Don't Drown"

Introduction

• The message encourages lifting up one's head and being encouraged despite current circumstances.
• God finishes what He starts.

Key Points from Mark 4:35-41

• Context: Jesus and disciples encounter a storm while crossing the Sea of Galilee.
• Jesus' Response: He rebukes the wind and calms the sea, questioning the disciples' faith.
• Takeaway: Trust in God even when circumstances seem dire.

Prayer

• Acknowledgement of God's presence and power in the room.
• Request for miracles, signs, wonders, and peace.

Personal Anecdote: "When it Rains, It Pours"

• Message: Life's troubles often come in waves, leading to compounded drama and difficulties.
• Result: Some people become paranoid, expecting bad things to happen, and stop taking risks.

Dealing with Storms

Types of Responses to Life's Challenges

• Risk-Adverse: Avoid taking risks to control outcomes and avoid pain.
• Risk-Takers: Take risks regardless of pain, sometimes leading to reckless behavior.
• Surrendered: Give up control and let life dictate outcomes.

Biblical Perspective on Storms

• Reality: Life has ups and downs; storms are a part of life.
• Disciples in Mark 4: Anger and fear towards Jesus during the storm.
• Key Insight: The presence of storms is not God's fault; it's part of living in a broken world.

How to Survive a Storm

Key Thoughts

1. It is Going to Rain: Expect storms in life.
   • Illustration: Golf game interrupted by rain; being prepared makes a difference.
   • Biblical Reference: John 16:33 - In the world, you will have tribulation but take heart, Jesus has overcome the world.
2. Building Boats: Use wisdom to prepare for and navigate storms.
   • Natural Wisdom: Applying practical wisdom can mitigate drama (e.g., P90X analogy).
   • Procrastination: Delaying action can worsen problems (e.g., roof leak illustration).
3. Speaking to the Waves: Use authority in Christ to rebuke spiritual opposition.
   • Spiritual Authority: Disciples had the power to calm the storm but didn't realize it.
   • Illustration: Jesus rebuking the wind and waves, indicating a spiritual battle.

Sub Points for Each Key Thought

1. When Realizing a Storm is Coming:
   • Don't freak out and make impulsive decisions.
   • Don't turn your back on Jesus.
   • Don't become selfish; help others even in your storm.
2. Building a Boat:
   • Do it today; don't procrastinate.
   • Apply wisdom in daily life.
   • Procrastination can multiply storms.
3. Speaking to the Waves:
   • Recognize when a storm is spiritual.
   • Use the authority of Jesus to rebuke the storm.

Final Encouragement

• Faith and Action: Balance between spiritual authority and practical wisdom.
• Prayer: Inviting Jesus into your life and boat, surrendering to His guidance.

Conclusion

• Call to Action: Openly declare the promises of God and use His authority to calm life's storms.
• Prayer for Salvation: Leading the audience in a prayer to invite Jesus into their lives.
• Celebration: Encouraging the congregation to celebrate those making decisions for Christ.