This is our last week for February's verse, Love one another (1John 4:7) and the fruit of the Spirit we're learning about is PEACE. Our story comes from Matthew 8:23-27 that tells about when Jesus calmed a fierce storm that threatened His friends lives. The disciples were crossing the sea in a boat when an raging storm came upon them, causing them to fear that the mighty winds would smash their boat, leaving them to drown. What was Jesus doing? Sleeping soundly, of course! When the men woke him to beg for His intervention, Jesus stood up, faced the storm and said, "Peace, be still." Instantly, the storm stopped and the disciples, once again were amazed by the power of the Messiah. Here are some more of God's promises about letting Him take control so that we can feel peace just like Jesus's disciples felt peace that day: John 16:33, “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” Philippians 4:6-7 says: "In nothing be anxious; but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall guard your hearts and your thoughts in Christ Jesus." For our game, pretending that the parachute was a boat sailing across the Galilee, we will bounce 12 beanbags through a storm of wind, rain, and thunder mayhem until Jesus comes onto the scene, stands up and commands, "Peace. Be still!" The songs we sing this week are God's Not Dead and The Fruit of the Spirit. Next week.....PATIENCE!
