Eyes on Jesus: Diving Deeper
See Jesus
Do you ever find yourself doing the silent, across-the-room "check in"? You know, something unexpected happens and you immediately shoot a quick glance over at your person to see how they are responding? If you do, don't worry that is normal!
You see, we are naturally drawn to "look to" something, especially when we are caught off guard or are feeling unsure. We do this socially AND we also "check in" with our sources of influence when we come up against trials or discomforts in our lives. We look to what we trust.
This week at Kid's Church we learned about Peter's encounter with Jesus found in Luke 5:1-11. Peter had spent the entire night fishing and had caught nothing. We can all probably identify with the frustration and discouragement he must have been feeling. He was at the end of his rope (or maybe net?). But oh, how the presence of Jesus transformed his situation!
Please take a moment to watch this clip of the story as told by The Chosen here.
Peter was in the midst of a very real problem and one look to Jesus changed everything for him. Not only was he given new strategy and miraculous provision. He was also invited into his true identity and calling.
Then Jesus said to Simon, “Don’t be afraid; from now on you will fish for people.” So they pulled their boats up on shore, left everything and followed him." Luke 5:10b-11
Suddenly, Peter experienced a shift and his priorities changed. When he looked to Jesus he heard the perspective and wisdom of heaven. Before him was an opportunity to trust what he saw in the face of his Saviour. And Family, we have this same opportunity given to us over and over and over and over again.
Checking in with the world and its ways simply can not compare. The world can not offer us true assurance or lasting peace. It can not speak abundant life and destiny like Jesus can. It will leave us short every time. Jesus said,
Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid. John 14:27
When you come against trials or discouragement the eyes of Jesus will always communicate peace to you. He is trustworthy and worth trusting. He knows the destiny over your life. He is confident in the plans that God has for you and for your family.
Family, if you have found yourself "checking in" with the world, it's okay, the Lord has an abundance of grace for us here. There is NO condemnation in Christ Jesus. But let’s not continue in the old way. Let’s ask the Holy Spirit to help us turn and fix our eyes on the one who leads us with peace in His eyes, no matter the circumstances. And let’s pray for courage to trust and follow what we see and hear there.
Family, grace and peace like a river to you this week and always.
-Pastor Charla
Know Jesus
This week, you can dive deeper into the message through one or all of the following:
Ask the Holy Spirit:
How can I fix my eyes on Jesus this week?
Ask for His perspective on a situation you are facing right now.
Do a DBS on Hebrews 12:1-2
Listen and worship along with "Here Now (Madness)" by Hillsong UNITED.
Consider the prayer prompts given in your time with God this week.
Discovery Bible Study
TO BEGIN
Pray and ask Holy Spirit to teach you about God from His word.
Next, read the verse a couple of times.
Now, ask these questions:
What does this tell me about God/Jesus?
What does this tell me about people?
How can I respond to what I just read?
When you’re done asking these questions, it’s a great idea to pray and thank God for teaching you more about who He is and who you are!
Discovery Bible Study (DBS) is a way for anyone, anywhere to read God's word! You can dive deeper into this week's message by doing a DBS one any one or all of these scriptures. DBS is a great tool to use for your own devotions, as a bible study with friends, or as an evangelism tool!
Hebrews 12:1-2
"Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us. We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, the champion who initiates and perfects our faith. Because of the joy awaiting him, he endured the cross, disregarding its shame. Now he is seated in the place of honour beside God’s throne."
Listen to ‘Here Now’ by Hillsong United
"Heart and soul, God I know that you are here now"
Prayer Prompts
Pray for grace to fix our eyes firmly on Jesus.
Pray that we would grow strong in the foundations of family growth.
Pray that the love of God would shine through the body of Christ.
Share Jesus
You can share this week's podcast, email, or blog post. Check out volunteer opportunities to get involved in the work of sharing Jesus in our church family and community.
Current Volunteer Opporunities
Kid's Church is looking for volunteers for their current schedule rotation. You can sign up to help by contacting Pastor Charla at pastorcharla@kiplingchurch.com.
